‘Competition is good’ could be the argument among the major regional cities as they pursue policies of change and improvement.
Surely this applies to Birmingham which wants a piece of the BBC action that has been such a boost to the North West and the big relocation to MediaCity. So Birmingham suggests it could be the BBC’s digital hub and also a centre for excellence in radio. It has long had a well established operation at Pebble Mill.
Confidence has already been boosted by the expansion of Deutsche Bank and its decision to have a trading floor, a symbol of financial viability.
It has to be said that the city is making significant strides as a shopping destination and has a new venue over the rebuilt New Street Railway Station to come.
Also imminent is the new library as a focal point of regeneration and the economy is being underpinned by having large Enterprise Zones. From the point of view of the local population, the city has been made more attractive over the past decade or so.
All these changes are essential for a city that aspires to have a global presence to attract more foreign companies (hence the importance of Deutsche Bank) and an increase in the scope and size of the business district as well as the arrival of high earners in the sector.
What is also happening is that the renaissance of the motor industry in the region is helping the industrial sector.