Core Cities welcome 'reset' of relations between UK and EU

Representing Core Cities UK, politicians and officers from Bristol, Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester recently met with their European counterparts to discuss shared challenges and policy priorities at the Eurocities conference in Braga, Portugal. Core Cities UK remains deeply committed to fostering strong relationships with European partners and we welcome the recent ‘Reset with Europe’ discussions iinvolving UK Government and European leaders. We believe our European ties remain invaluable to achieving shared prosperity and innovation and supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.With over 75% of people in Europe living in urban areas, city voices - in partnership with our respective Governments, the EU and other key institutions and sectors - are key to helping shape solutions to shared global challenges.
During the conference Manchester contributed to a forum on the current housing crisis. It joined a call for a revised strategy where local solutions are supported to deliver affordable housing (for rent and purchase) that tackles market failure.
Bristol and Glasgow also spoke on the importance of unlocking inclusive public space, working with the community and key partners to develop spaces that deliver vibrant, inclusive, accessible and multifunctional spaces that deliver good health and wellbeing as part of an urban environment.
With Edinburgh joining our alliance this year, Core Cities UK now represents 12 cities that are working locally, nationally and globally, both within Europe and more broadly to;

• Deliver healthy, safe and inclusive homes and communities.
  Support action on climate change (journey to Net Zero)
• To deliver ecological recovery, including through international forums such as COP30.
• Increase opportunities for trade and investment.
• Open up opportunities for young people, including through the proposed youth mobility/experience scheme.
• Recognise and promote our UK Cities soft power assets including education, research, development and innovation and sport and cultural assets/sectors.

We welcome continued opportunities to unlock the power and potential of our cities through shared dialogue, funding and investment that delivers for all.

Cllr James Lewis, Chair, Core Cities UK and Leader of Leeds City Council