Southampton, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), and Portsmouth are the economic engines of the ‘Central South’, with a combined conurbation where the South East and South West regions join.

With a population of nearly 950,000 people and around 495,000 jobs, the urban settlements are well-placed to deliver growth. However, the similar-sized urban centres have often competed with each other rather than complementing one another. The lack of a clearly defined geographical area has been a further blocker to the collective promotion of the region.

In recent years, there has been a more concerted effort, by businesses and politicians alike, to promote the collective benefits of the region. Despite its advantages, the Central South has numerous physical, land and planning constraints, and therefore currently under-delivers, but it has the opportunity to realise its potential and growth ambitions as a region.

Looking ahead, education is undoubtedly a ticket to economic growth, with six universities and 83,000 students across the Central South region. Keeping them here is the fundamental challenge. London will always be a draw for many, but the Central South region already excels in sectors such as human health and the marine sector whilst has growth ambitions in other high-value industries such as professional, scientific and tech, which should help turn the brain drain into a brain gain.

With freeport status sites, excellent national and international transport links and a well-educated workforce, not to mention a quality environment, the Central South region is well-placed to deliver growth.

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