Knightsbridge of the North with top shops, including celebrated Harvey Nicks. Lots spent on city centre - plenty of pedestrianisation. Prosperity fuelled by financial and legal services sector netted during the 90s.
England's second city provides a fifth of all jobs in the West Midlands. Whopping venues like the NEC and Arena pull in the punters. Extensive redevelopment includes canal basin and now the Bullring. Cultural big hitters include the Royal Ballet and the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Dramatic improvements in education.
Airport is largest outside London. Bombed city centre thoughtfully rebuilt. Commonwealth Games sparked investment in sport. Tram connects distinct city quarters, rolling out to redeveloped Trafford Park and Salford Quays, with iconic War Museum and Lowry Centre. Core Cities' highest jobs growth.
At end of M4 hi-tech corridor. Attracted HQs from London and south-east. In top 15 European regions for innovation, including aerospace, media and semi-conductors. Sparkling renovated waterfront. Laid back arty boho buzz. Core Cities' lowest rate of unemployment.
New life given to Albert Dock area. High tech industries attracted elsewhere. Air passenger numbers have grown by 315% since 1997, although from a low base. Employment growth second highest of Core Cities. Big partnership push secured European City of Culture. Takes up title in 2008.
Lots of shops, business services and call centres. New bars for legendary Geordie nightlife. Metro connects conurbation right out to North Seaside. Partnered Gateshead for North-East's unlikely cultural revolution, including Angel of the North, Baltic Mills and the Gateshead Music Centre. Sophisticated new bridge across the Tyne.
Some success with new technology since the decline of steel, including software and metal-cutting research. Nurturing native creative industries. Hub of £300 million South Yorkshire Renaissance scheme, funded by Europe. Steady progress in reducing unemployment.
By 2010 Nottingham will be recognised as a leading UK city and have a strong international profile, driving up competitiveness within the East Midlands. The city's wealth will have grown beyond the UK average and more of that prosperity will be retained for our communities and businesses.