Under the current credit crisis there is reason to wonder if peripheral regions will be especially hit hard, particularly when measuring the impact of the troubles in the financial sector on the "real economy". Those regions that were witnessing a certain level of success in "transforming" themselves, may see their efforts evaporate as public spending is cut and credit is restrained. Looking at the same issue from an international perspective, developing countries, initially believed to be relatively insulated, are also witnessing an economic downturn. It is therefore a pressing issue to discuss the futures of peripheral regions and how will they emerge of this crisis.
The Smith Institute is organising a discussion on the future of the North East of England on Thursday 12th March 2009, accompanying the launch of a monograph of essays on the future of the North East, edited by Professor John Tomaney (Executive Director, Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies).
More information on the Smith Institute here.
