Cardiff Capital Region Economic Growth Partnership has revealed an industrial and economic growth plan for South East Wales which it hopes will improve future productivity and prosperity across the region.
The plan builds on the broad framework for action set out by the Growth and Competiveness Commission report which gave its findings in December 2016.
The future infrastructure of the region will be underpinned by the £734m South Wales Metro, which is being funded with City Deal investment.
Frank Holmes, chair of the CCR’s Economic Growth, said: "The plan is industry-led and developed by business.
"It highlights some of the economic productivity issues our region faces and endorses innovation-led, scalable projects necessary to generate sustainable growth and inclusive prosperity.
"It advocates global connectivity by investing in first-rate transport systems, housing, digital infrastructure and employable skills in order to exceed the competitive objectives of job creation, improved GVA and leveraging ever-green investments.
"Like any plan its success will be determined by action and leadership, requiring all stakeholders to commit to its delivery and ambition of generating a thriving and resilient economic region necessary to sustain the prosperity of future generations to come.
"It is critical that this plan and this region has visibility and influence outside of Wales, and indeed, globally. Our competition is both overseas and the other regions of the UK.
"Cohesion amongst all stakeholders is fundamental to the plan’s success. This includes joined-up regional and UK government policies, public-private sector partnerships, reciprocal collaboration with education providers and social enterprise engagement. With these partnerships, the plan looks to enhance existing skills and develop new ones that will align with the region’s focus sectors.
"Therefore, we will be promoting and engaging with stakeholders not just in Wales, and further afield as well."
Councillor Andrew Morgan, chair of the Cardiff Capital Region Cabinet, and chair of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: "The Regional Cabinet is pleased with how the Economic Growth Plan has been developed and welcomes the fact that it goes beyond just creating jobs. It looks at the four combined aspects that will help us grow the economy: housing, transport, skills and jobs, and in turn, that will bring about economic benefits across the region.
"Working with Welsh Government and led by our EGP, we have to plan for a world where there are no more city deals and no more EU funding."