West Midlands region, England geography, socio-economic challenges, deprivation, unemployment rates, Birmingham, Coventry, rural areas, urban conurbations
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Abstract
The West Midlands region is characterized by geographical contrasts and socio-economic challenges, with areas of deprivation and prosperity coexisting.
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[...] Wolverhampton, at 7.7%, had the second-highest unemployment rate (along with Manchester) in England. It was followed by Sandwell at 7.1%, Birmingham at 7.0% and Walsall at 6.4%. The lowest rate in the region was Stratford-on-Avon district, at 1.6% - one of the lowest unemployment rates in England. Conclusion The West Midlands region undoubtedly has major advantages in terms of geography and population, however the differences in wealth and social status in its major conurbations are undeniable challenges that England must face. [...]
[...] The main cities of the West Midlands region include Birmingham and Coventry. However, despite geographical assets, the region, from studies on multiple deprivations, shows similarities with Yorkshire and the Humber, and is more deprived than the neighbouring East Midlands. According to the 2007 Indices of Deprivation, it can be seen that, as in the North of England, the region has more super-output areas located in the lower 20% of the most deprived districts compared to the 20% least deprived districts. [...]
[...] West Midlands Introduction The West Midlands region shares its borders with North West, East Midlands, South East and South West regions of England and Wales. It is the only region without a coastline in England, with 13,000 km2, making it the third smallest English region by area, after London and the North East. The region is often described as an area of contrasts. It includes the densely populated conurbations of Birmingham, which is the largest conurbation in England outside of London, as well as the rural areas of the counties of Herefordshire and Shropshire. [...]
