Navigating the Midlands

The Midlands sits at the heart of the UK’s economy, playing a critical role in manufacturing, logistics, energy, housing and infrastructure.

Its strategic location, industrial heritage and growing role within national growth agendas continue to attract significant investment across a wide range of sectors. At the same time, organisations operating in the Midlands must navigate an increasingly complex political environment shaped by fragmented council control, evolving mayoral leadership, shifting voter behaviour and growing influence from local stakeholder and community groups.

For organisations seeking to invest, grow or deliver major projects, success increasingly depends on understanding the political, stakeholder and community dynamics that influence decision-making across both the East and West Midlands.

How we help.

Securing Support for Major Projects and Investment

The Midlands continues to attract significant investment across energy, infrastructure, logistics, manufacturing, housing and data infrastructure.

We help organisations build support, navigate stakeholder environments and create the conditions required for successful delivery.

Navigating Political and Regulatory Risk

Political authority is increasingly dispersed across local authorities, combined authorities, metro mayors and national government. At the same time, traditional political loyalties are shifting, creating a more fragmented and less predictable operating environment.

We help organisations understand evolving political dynamics, anticipate emerging risks and engage effectively with decision-makers.

Strengthening Licence
to Operate

Stakeholder expectations around growth, development, infrastructure and investment continue to evolve.

We help organisations build trust, strengthen relationships and maintain support amongst local communities, elected representatives and wider stakeholders.

Managing Reputation
Under Pressure

Projects and organisations increasingly operate within highly visible and contested environments where political, community and media scrutiny can influence outcomes.

We help organisations anticipate issues, maintain stakeholder confidence and navigate periods of heightened attention or opposition.

Driving Growth and
Market Advantage

The Midlands remains one of the UK’s most important economic regions, offering significant opportunities for organisations seeking to invest, expand and strengthen market position.

We help organisations align with regional priorities, strengthen positioning and build influence within key markets.

Our thinking.

Report

2026: The Year of Reform in the West Midlands?

Reform UK is on course to make significant gains across the West Midlands. We’ve collated ONS census data from the 2025 local elections, to create a profile for Reform-voting wards.

Report

Who’s Who in the West Midlands.

From Reform UK taking outright control of two councils to Birmingham’s novel coalition agreement, we examine the movers and shakers in this new political environment.

Our experts.

Adam Farrell

Adam Farrell

Director
Kevin Whitmore

Kevin Whitmore

Director

Name

Position

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