State of the Region Report 2009 « West Midlands Regional Observatory

This report brings together some of the key evidence from the State of the Region dialogues, a new process we started in 2008, with a range of other information about the major issues facing the West Midlands.

The State of the Region process brings together those responsible for preparing the region's evidence base with those who use it to develop policies and strategies for the region and its constituent parts.

The aim is to ensure that the evidence being provided by researchers, including the Observatory, better meets the needs of policy-makers, and that the evidence is used to improve regional policies and strategies.

This report tackles a range of issues, including:

Impact of the recession on the West Midlands
Preparing for the economic recovery
Improving productivity and economic inclusion
Improving reliability of the region's transport network
Reducing worklessness
Raising qualification levels
Enhancing the economic contribution of minority ethnic groups
Addressing the needs of an ageing population and a growing gap in age profiles between urban and rural areas
Improving lifestyles to prevent future health problems developing
Raising participation in cultural and sporting activities
Improving the image of the region to encourage people and businesses to locate here
Protecting the natural environment whilst taking advantage of opportunities brought about by climate change
Building more houses in response to growing demand while protecting the environment
Addressing anti-social behaviour and improving access to services to raise the quality of life