Economy

Over 192,000 new jobs are planned for the mksm area by 2021. Economic growth is the cornerstone of building better communities.

Strategically placed between London, Oxford and Cambridge, mksm has a range of well-served transport routes reaching across the country and to Europe (including easy links with Eurostar services via Kings Cross St Pancras) and international links via London Luton Airport. This geographic advantage means mksm is well-placed to deal with wider economic changes and enhance its own economic prosperity.

The existing workforce is well-educated and served by a range of colleges and universities, whose courses range from vocational training, business, commerce, science and technology to postgraduate research. These institutions are working with businesses to provide solutions for the future workforce of mksm.

A network of enterprise and innovation centres operates across the mksm area. Enterprise education is offered in many schools, social enterprises are actively encouraged by partners, and new business incubation facilities are being developed to ensure a strong supply of new businesses and entrepreneurs.

Current sectors anticipated for significant growth in the area include:

• High-performance automotive
• ICT, creative and other
• Knowledge-based industries
• Food and drink
• Freight and logistics
• Health and social care
• Tourism
• Airport services

In addition to these key areas, aviation, manufacturing, agriculture and forestry will continue to play an important role in the area’s economy.