Manchester is now one of fastest growing cities in Europe

Manchester has become one of the fastest growing cities in Europe – according to a report published by the city council.

According to The State of the City Report Manchester’s population is nearing 600,000, growing from 539,600 in 2015 to 572,000 people in 2018.

And the number of businesses operating in the city also continues to grow and companies in the culture, creative and digital sectors are thriving.

An increased focus on key skills such as coding and programming could see more Manchester people find jobs in the digital sector.

The number of active business increased by 18% between 2015 and 2016, compared to a national average increase of 6%.

However, 69% of graduates originally from Manchester are choosing to remain in the region following their studies improving the skill base of the city – and 36% of Manchester people return to the city after leaving the city to study.

Almost three quarters of Manchester’s residents in work earned at least the £8.45 Real Living Wage last year.

Although 40% of the population are qualified to degree level or above, 11% do not have qualifications compared to 8% nationally.

Schools in the city have improved significantly, narrowing the exam results gap against the national average and further improvement continues, working in partnership with school leaders to target and improve key areas such as reading and maths.

Deprivation remains in some areas of the city and a growing number of people are homeless.

Premature deaths from common health issues – such as cancer, respiratory disease and cardiovascular disease – are some of the highest in England.

Factors such as poor diet and exercise, smoking and air quality are a key factor

Morning commuter numbers into the city centre have grown by sic per cent since 2015 and more people are choosing to travel by public transport or on a bike.

Walking and cycling have increased by 13% and 15% respectively between 2015 and 2017, while car travel has reduced from 26% to 23% in the same period.

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The State of the City report is an important marker for our city, our communities and partners to understand where we need to improve in the years to come, but also to reflect on the positive outcomes and progress Manchester is making every year.

“Manchester remains one of the UK’s top cities to live in and we can see this in action as more people choose the city as their home, and we continue to see more and more graduates choosing the region following their studies.

“However, we recognise there are still milestones to reach to improve the lives of Manchester people – not least in health and education – but through the Our Manchester approach we can forge stronger relationships with our communities to ensure the city meets our ambitious target of being in the top flight of global cities by 2025.”