COMMENT
The best is yet to come for Tees region , says mayor
OUR TIME
TO SHINE
Elected Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen tells This Is Tees Valley why the best is yet to come for the Tees region …
As I reflect on the overwhelming support and trust placed in me by the people of Teesside , Darlington , and Hartlepool , I am filled with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose . My 2024 election win was not just a personal victory ; it was a testament to our collective efforts to create a brighter future for our communities .
Together , we have made significant strides , and together , we will continue to deliver progress , prosperity and pride .
Over the past two terms , we laid strong foundations for economic revival and job creation , principally through the development of our key infrastructure which has allowed us to attract significant global investment .
Our ambitious projects , such as the Teesworks site , have already started transforming the industrial landscape , attracting investments and creating thousands of jobs .
The revitalisation of the former steelworks site , which is now part of the UK ' s largest and most successful freeport , stands as a beacon of our potential .
It is a clear indication that Teesside can lead the way in the green industrial revolution , driving forward the production of clean energy and sustainable technologies while also creating economic security for local people .
However , our journey is far from over . The new term brings fresh challenges and opportunities , and it is imperative that we stay focused on our priorities to ensure that the momentum we have built continues to grow .
One of the cornerstones of our success has been the remarkable economic growth we have witnessed in recent years .
Teesside , Darlington and Hartlepool have become centres of innovation and industry , attracting investment and creating jobs , which has seen the employment rate rise 5.4 per cent since 2017 , when I was first elected .
In the coming term we will continue to attract high-quality investments that create well-paying jobs for our residents .
We are committed to supporting local businesses , fostering entrepreneurship , and ensuring that our workforce has the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy .
Our vision is to make our region a powerhouse of industry and innovation , where opportunities are available to all local people .
Infrastructure development has been – and remains – crucial for sustained economic growth .
Over the past few years , we have made significant investments in improving our transport networks .
The revival of Teesside International Airport is clearly the headline , but we have done so much more , including redeveloping Darlington , Hartlepool , Billingham , Eaglescliffe and Middlesbrough train stations , all of which is opening our region to increased opportunities for trading and attracting investment .
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