A BOLD vision to make Greater Manchester one of the best places in the world to grow up, get on and grow old has been unveiled.

Called ‘Our People, Our Place’, the new Greater Manchester Strategy is a long term blueprint for the future of the 2.8m people who make up our region.

The plan looks at health, wellbeing, work and jobs, housing, transport, skills, training and economic growth to ensure that everyone across Greater Manchester has the opportunity to reach their potential.

It’s been drawn up by all 10 councils, the Mayor, the NHS, transport, the police and the fire service after speaking with businesses, the voluntary and social enterprise sectors, and – most importantly of all – Greater Manchester people themselves.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said:

“This strategy has been created to make sure that every single person in Greater Manchester has access to the best opportunities growing up, getting on and growing older.

“It’s an ambitious plan but it is one that with the help of everyone across Greater Manchester we are determined to achieve. Devolution has given us such a positive opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives and we have grasped it with both hands. This strategy will help make Greater Manchester one of the best places in the world.”

Mike Blackburn, Chair of Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership said:

“The Greater Manchester Strategy is a vital opportunity to formalise the approach through which the region aims to safeguard its continued progress and make us a globally competitive place to live and work.

“Thanks to achievements made under the previous two strategies, Greater Manchester’s development is continuing well, delivering strong economic growth and increased productivity. However as we look ahead there is still progress to be made, such as addressing the skills gap, improving transport infrastructure, and creating more housing for those of us in need. The Greater Manchester Strategy gives us the chance to address these priorities and look to how we can work together to achieve a better future for the region.”

Patsy Hodson, Chair of the Board of Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisation, said:

“We share the vision of the Greater Manchester Strategy, with its emphasis on the welfare and ambitions of the people of the city region and its commitment to developing inclusive economic growth.

“It aligns with our own vision of economic, social and political inclusion for all supported by a strong voluntary, community and social enterprise sector led by local people.

“The strategy is ambitious and challenging, but I believe Greater Manchester can and will deliver on it if we all continue to work together.”

Find out more at www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/ourpeopleourplace