WITH the public sector squeeze hitting hardest in our region, there has never been a greater case for joined-up thinking between councils.

It makes sense for local authorities to share expertise and resources, and to present a unified front to would-be investors.

We, therefore, broadly welcome the proposal to establish a combined authority for the Tees Valley, linking the councils of Darlington, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Hartlepool.

We also appreciate the concerns which have driven those councils in the south of the region to go it alone, rather than join the North-East Combined Authority (NECA) which unites councils in the north of the region.

The south of the region has always felt shortchanged by the Newcastle-centric development bodies of various guises in the past. That is why we have ended up replacing a regional development agency – ironically called “One North-East” – with two local enterprise partnerships (LEPs), and now plans for two combined authorities.

What the region as a whole cannot afford, and should never accept, is a north-south divide within itself. It is bad enough having a north-south divide in Britain.

The two combined authorities must work together, and be seen to be working together, for the greater good of the North-East of England.

Beyond our boundaries, there are not many who truly understand the identity of the “Tees Valley”. But there is an appreciation – nationally and internationally – of the “North-East”.

It is the home of passionate places, passionate people; Nissan; devoted football supporters; railway heritage; stunning countryside; the Angel of the North; and Durham Cathedral, one of world’s favourite buildings.

We must not undermine that hard-won North-East brand by pulling in different directions.