The British government promotes 'Growth Corridor' between Oxford and Cambridge.

The British government has launched an ambitious project to transform the region between Oxford and Cambridge into a hub of innovation and the digital economy, similar to the famous American Silicon Valley. The Minister of Economy, Rachel Reeves, will officially unveil this plan, called the 'Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor,' in a speech scheduled for this Wednesday in Oxfordshire. This corridor aims to improve connections and infrastructure between these two historic university cities, known for hosting some of the best educational institutions in the world and a vibrant ecosystem of science and technology. According to the official statement, the economic activity generated by this initiative is expected to contribute approximately £78 billion (around €92.9 billion) to the British economy by 2035. This development will not only focus on job creation in the innovation, science, and technology sectors, but will also seek to attract substantial investments that strengthen the UK's global positioning. A key aspect of the plan includes facilitating real estate development in Cambridge, where the construction of 4,500 new homes, as well as laboratories and offices to support research and development, is anticipated. This urban growth is designed to meet the demand for space arising from the expansion of technology and research companies and the increasing population in the region. At the same time, the government has negotiated with water companies to unlock an investment of £7.9 billion (€9.42 billion) aimed at improving water infrastructure. This investment will involve the creation of nine new reservoirs, which will not only ensure an adequate water supply for new developments but also contribute to the region's sustainability. Improvements in transport connections are another fundamental component of the corridor. Significant investments are expected in the rail and road networks between Oxford and Cambridge, facilitating the movement of workers, students, and researchers, and enhancing the quality of life in both cities. This interconnection is vital for fostering a collaborative environment between universities and businesses. Reeves will also announce plans to prioritize the construction of a new cancer research hospital in Cambridge, underscoring the government's commitment to medical research and public health. This center will not only represent an advancement in the fight against cancer but will also attract researchers and healthcare professionals, further enriching the innovation ecosystem in the region. The Secretary of State for Science, Research and Innovation, Patrick Vallance, who has been in the public eye as a scientific advisor during the pandemic, will oversee the implementation of this corridor. His experience and knowledge in the sector will be crucial to ensuring that the project meets its objectives and maintains high standards of quality and innovation. Reeves will emphasize in her speech that, despite the enormous economic potential that Oxford and Cambridge offer, deficiencies in connections, lack of adequate services, and high living costs are obstacles that have limited their expansion. The government recognizes that to turn these cities into a true economic engine, it is essential to address these infrastructure issues. "Just 66 miles (around 106 kilometers) apart, these cities host two of the best universities in the world and two of the most prominent innovation clusters. The area has all the conditions to become a hub of world-renowned science and technology companies," Reeves will state, highlighting the uniqueness and potential that the region already possesses. With this initiative, the British government hopes not only to boost the local economy but also to solidify the UK's position as a leader in innovation and technology in Europe. If successfully implemented, the 'Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor' could become a symbol of British economic revival, bringing it closer to becoming the Silicon Valley of the old continent.