The Cabinet of the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority met on Tuesday 27 October 2026. The meeting endorsed the draft Strategic Regeneration Framework for the Newcastle and Gateshead Mayoral Development Zone and approved the approach for the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority to become an Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot area. The meeting also discussed the framework for delivering apprenticeships and the strategic regeneration of the Newcastle and Gateshead urban core.

Newcastle and Gateshead Mayoral Development Zone – Strategic Regeneration Framework

Cabinet endorsed the draft Newcastle and Gateshead Mayoral Development Zone Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF). This framework sets out a long-term vision for the transformation of the Newcastle and Gateshead urban core over the next 25 years, aiming to drive economic growth, attract investment, and create thriving places. The SRF identifies three key Big Moves: creating A Place to Call Home by increasing the residential population, developing A World-Class Urban Destination by celebrating culture, heritage, and sport, and fostering Innovation, Enterprise and Shared Prosperity by connecting talent and investment. Authority was delegated to the Director of Finance and Investment, in consultation with the North East Mayor, to manage the public and stakeholder consultation process and to make any final amendments following consultation before publishing the final SRF.

Delivering a North East Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot to Create Real Opportunity for Young People and Employers

Cabinet approved the approach for the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority to become an Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilot area. This pilot aims to address youth disengagement and improve apprenticeship opportunities, particularly for young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). The initiative will build on existing regional provision, focusing initially on the Housing, Leisure and Tourism, and Advanced Manufacturing sectors. The pilot is expected to create 1,500 additional apprenticeship starts by March 2029. Authority was delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the portfolio holder, to approve the delivery plan and the deployment of up to £10 million in Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) pilot funding.

The meeting also included discussions that highlighted the importance of harnessing local authority talent and leadership in regional initiatives, rather than duplicating efforts. There was a strong emphasis on ensuring that young people have better access to apprenticeships and that businesses are supported in employing more apprentices. The location for the meeting was the Energy Central Learning Hub in Blyth, an area that has undergone significant regeneration from its industrial past. The next Cabinet meeting was scheduled for 24 November 2026, to be held at the Biscuit Factory in Newcastle.