St Chad’s College recently hosted the latest ESRC-sponsored seminar in a series of discussions assessing the impact of greater Scottish autonomy on the north of England. This seminar looked at the ‘challenges for governance’. Speakers from both sides of the border considered the opportunities for cross-border collaboration, especially in relation to promoting economic development and growth. It was felt that, whatever the outcome of the referendum on independence in the autumn, it was time for northern England to look north and create stronger links with Scotland. Northern England has been too focused on links with London and the south, despite having so much in common with near neighbours in Scotland. Whatever happens, the border needs to become more porous: less of a barrier and more of an opportunity.

Professors Keith Shaw, Fred Robinson and Jonathan Blackie discussed the work they had done for the Association of North East Councils on the potential impacts of greater Scottish autonomy. Their Borderlands report was published a few months ago and is available here.