What the study found
The study argues that post-Brexit Britain needs to rethink traditional growth approaches in order to support balanced and equitable development across regions. It contrasts market-driven policy with alternatives such as community wealth building, social democracy, and cooperative models.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say the issue matters because post-Brexit Britain has faced disrupted governance arrangements and funding systems that had been supported by EU Structural Funds. The study suggests that context-specific strategies focused on long-term sustainability, community participation, and social well-being are needed.
What the researchers tested
The paper examines policy initiatives including Growth Deals, the Levelling Up agenda, and Building Sustainable Prosperity. It uses growth coalitions and regime theory to analyze alliances among business leaders, politicians, and other stakeholders involved in local development, while also drawing on examples from Northern Ireland, Great Britain, Spain, the Basque Country, and the Mondragón Corporation.
What worked and what didn't
The abstract says the paper critically analyzes existing post-Brexit policies and finds them tied to a neoliberal, market-driven emphasis that has exacerbated social and economic inequalities. It presents community wealth building, social democracy, and cooperative models as alternative frameworks that emphasize social equity, local empowerment, and sustainable practices.
What to keep in mind
The available summary does not provide detailed data, methods, or specific measured outcomes. It also does not state limitations beyond the paper's focus on particular policy frameworks and regional examples.
Key points
- The paper argues for rethinking growth policy in post-Brexit Britain.
- It critiques market-driven development for worsening social and economic inequalities.
- It discusses Growth Deals, the Levelling Up agenda, and Building Sustainable Prosperity.
- It highlights community wealth building, social democracy, and cooperative models as alternatives.
- It notes that Brexit disrupted governance arrangements and EU-funded development structures.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Post-Brexit growth policy is critiqued for widening regional inequalities
- Authors:
- M.C. Mccormack
- Institutions:
- Queen's University Belfast
- Publication date:
- 2026-02-17
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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