Andy Street: Innovation and investment are turning the Black County blue

On this day each year, we celebrate the first steam engine hissing into operation. And retain the decisive vision that powers progress.

Andy Street: Our blueprint setting out the economic ambitions of the West Midlands

This ambitious business case is based on our experiences not only of recovering from the last downturn, but on the successes of the last three years.

Andy Street: With more shops opening again, here are high street lessons we can learn from the last recession

At John Lewis where I was a new MD, we decided to put our trust in technology – to build a business model for the future.

Andy Street: Let the West Midlands be the test bed for reopening tourism and culture

We stand ready to act as a pilot area that would provide valuable insights for UK venues preparing for life after lockdown.

Andy Street: Easing the lockdown means trusting the people

Here in the West Midlands we are seeing construction resuming, the housing market restarting and our all-important car industry reviving.

Andy Street: Our West Midlands recovery plan – and why no one-size-fits-all Whitehall scheme would work

Here, the recovery of our automotive and construction sectors is crucial – firms in the region directly employ around 46,500 people.

Andy Street: NHS staff have invoked the Blitz spirit during these times. They must be rewarded for their gallantry.

As Lord Ashcroft wrote recently for ConservativeHome, the George Cross would be the best way to honour our heroes.

Andy Street: What we’re doing in the West Midlands to combat the coronavirus.

If you really want to see how we’re pulling together, the best example is taking shape now at the NEC, outside Birmingham – the new NHS Nightingale Hospital.

Andy Street: The concerns of UK businesses are being heard

In contrast to 2008’s financial crisis, the Coronavirus is expected to be short-lived. In the meantime, the Government must be quick to protect livelihoods.

Andy Street: Jobs are what will help us level up the economy

For the Conservatives to fulfil their promise of “levelling up” the UK, they must create ample employment opportunities.

Andy Street: My West Midlands shopping list for the Chancellor’s first Budget

We must level-up the country. By providing the funds we need, the Government will send a vote of confidence in the power of local decision-making.

Andy Street: Yes to HS2. But it’s only the start of the transport revolution we need north of Watford.

That’s why last week I launched my transport plan for the West Midlands – an ambitious, 20-year vision of how our constituent boroughs will be linked in the coming decades.

Andy Street: The Government is providing the investment we need to make our communities safer

We have a candidate for PCC in Jay Singh-Sohal who grasps the complexities of policing one of the most densely populated areas in Europe.

Andy Street: Levelling up for the Midlands and North. Javid must tear up the Treasury rules to make sure it happens.

We in the regions must accept that it will be up to us to provide the detailed data that will help to monitor the success of investment made.

Andy Street: My ten-point West Midlands plan for the new Government

The Prime Minister was right to say many voters have only ‘lent’ us their votes. We must now earn that trust, by ensuring the benefits of life in a post-Brexit Britain reach all communities.