North West Economic Corridor Study

The following is an introduction to the North West Economic Corridor Study a comprehensive prospectus for change commissioned for and published by NWCCI in 2003.

The aim of the West Economic Corridor Study was to produce an Action Plan for the North West Cross Border Economic Corridor along the Derry/Letterkenny axis, building on the vision and wider strategies set out in the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland (RDS) and the National Spatial Strategy for the Republic of Ireland (NSS).

The RDS recognises Derry as the 'hub' and regional gateway for the North West and the NSS confirms gateway status for the Derry/Letterkenny corridor. In combination these policy documents represent an intent to bring about a change in the economic fortunes of the North West - the big question is how this can be achieved once we go beyond the well intentioned rhetoric.

Recent significant job losses in the North West and continuing high levels of unemployment serve to highlight the vulnerability of the regional economy and suggest that the time has come for a step-change in the regions development. The NSS and RDS represent a starting point. Other initiatives such as the establishment of the Integrated Development Fund and the creation of Ilex - the Urban Regeneration Company for the Derry City Council Area - are other indicators that positive change and significant investment are both required and expected.

The NWCCI itself is recognition that action is required. In the first instance it represents a partnership between the North West Chambers involving businesses across the region. Secondly, the support of local authorities emphasises the movement towards partnership between the public and private sectors. And thirdly, the Initiative highlights the need to go beyond words and set out a path for action which will make a real difference to the economic future of the region and in turn make real improvements in terms of quality of life.

The report aims to set out such a path. However, it is not an end in itself (all too often reports, strategies and plans are not effectively pursued). There will be much to do beyond the report. It will require the support of all levels of government, central and local, as well as the private sector. It will also require commitment - to investment and implementation - both now and for the long haul on a partnership basis, positive public sector intervention supporting private sector entrepreneurship.

It is the intention of the NWCCI that the report should provide a platform for the economic regeneration of the North West, tackling head on the real challenges and opportunities facing the region. The report represents a practical way ahead and a basis for effective regional development. However, this can only be achieved through long term support for the objectives of the Action Plan ( 'Action Not Words' ) and a commitment to its implementation in full.