Cambridge has added another feather in its cap after it emerged that the place – famous for its colleges and punting – is also the most vibrant place to live and work in England.
According to a new study from Grant Thornton UK LLP, Cambridge was judged to have the best balance of economic growth, innovation, social equality, health and happiness.
The Vibrant Economy Index – which looks at 324 local authorities across England – measures how towns and cities in England compare on a range of factors from prosperity to health, wellbeing and happiness, and inclusion and equality.
It discovered economic output, earnings and business turnover do not correlate in any significant way with other measurements of performance, such as health, equality and opportunity – that is efforts that solely focus on improving the economic performance of a place do not always translate into creating a healthy, happy place to live, or one in which individuals feel part of their community.
Oxford was second, judged to be wealthier but lacking in the dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit of Cambridge. Richmond upon Thames came third. Its residents were judged to be among the healthiest and happiest in the country.
Cambridge tops the most vibrant area list followed by Oxford, Richmond upon Thames, South Cambridgeshire, Guildford, Wokingham, Windsor & Maidenhead, Vale of White Horse, Winchester and Reigate & Banstead.
