Mayor Calls For Government To Deliver For Tees Valley

The Mayor has called on the new UK Government to support the drive to deliver further economic growth and prosperity to Tees Valley at a meeting with the Prime Minister.  

Ben Houchen met Sir Keir Starmer alongside other regional metro mayors at Downing Street on Tuesday morning.

The mayor congratulated Sir Keir on his election and pledged a commitment to work with the new Government to build on key achievements across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool in recent years. 

Mayor Houchen has now called on the Government to support the continued effort to deliver skilled jobs, investment and growth.   

Mayor Houchen said: “Our region has undergone huge transformation in recent years and stands as the prime example of what can be achieved through successful devolution. 

“We have delivered new jobs and opportunities by attracting huge investment from global companies at Teesworks and beyond, launched the UK’s best performing Freeport, brought the Treasury to Darlington and revitalised Teesside Airport. 

“However, our work is far from done and we are now driving forward with ambitious plans that will deliver for local people. 

“The new Prime Minister and Chancellor have spoken of the importance of growth across the UK and I would urge them to look at how our region has been at the forefront of achieving this by developing new industries in sectors such as green energy.” 

Mayor Houchen has requested a private meeting with Sir Keir to discuss specific Government support for British Steel’s proposals for an Electric Arc Furnace at Lackenby, near Redcar, which would see the return of steelmaking to Teesside. 

The Mayor also called on the Government to work to secure a Final Investment Decision by bp on its Net Zero Teesside Power carbon capture project at Teesworks. 

Mayor Houchen said: “These are multi-billion pound investments which will bring thousands of well-paid, highly skilled jobs to our area and it is essential the new Government moves quickly to provide whatever support it can to ensure their successful delivery. 

“I look forward to working closely with all parties to bring these game-changing projects to fruition alongside other developments which will continue to bring prosperity and growth to Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.”