Key facts
- KPMG and Deloitte intend to increase their headcount in Greater Manchester.
- The firms anticipate a surge in advisory work linked to regional devolution.
- Greater Manchester's new growth strategy includes a £10 billion investment pipeline over 10 years.
- The strategy aims to deliver significant investment annually, create tens of thousands of jobs, and accelerate housing delivery.
- Mayor Andy Burnham's devolution deal enhances local control over key economic areas.
KPMG and Deloitte are planning to expand their workforce in the Greater Manchester region, anticipating a significant increase in advisory services driven by the area's devolution efforts and a substantial investment pipeline. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has launched a new decade-long growth strategy, aiming to attract investment, develop infrastructure, and create economic opportunities. This strategy includes a £10 billion investment pipeline, targeting up to £1 billion annually, with goals to generate tens of thousands of jobs and accelerate the delivery of over 17,000 homes. Mayor Andy Burnham's leadership and the enhanced powers gained through a recent devolution deal are central to this initiative, enabling greater local control over transport, housing, and economic development. The approach is seen as a continuation of the 'Northern Powerhouse' agenda, emphasizing locally led, collaborative growth. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential exclusion of rural areas from these devolution arrangements and the significant reduction in local councils and councillors that could result from proposed reorganizations, contrasting with models like Germany's tiered municipal structure.