New research shows that job creation in the south of England is accelerating 12 times faster than in the rest of the country.

The Centre for Studies 2015 Cities Outlook shows that since 2004, 12 jobs have been created in the South for every one job created elsewhere in the UK.

Reasons for the divide include the impact of the financial crisis, which began in 2008, and a move away from manufacturing towards a knowledge-based economy.

The trend has evolved quickly, leaving some cities behind the leaders, most notably London.

Milton Keynes led the pack with an 18.2% increase in jobs, or 24,400 overall, while Gloucester suffered the biggest drop in jobs, with numbers declining 8,100 or 12.6%.

Centre for Cities boss Andrew Carter said: “Cities need long-term funding and strategic planning, and policies that go to the heart of addressing the key drivers of economic growth – including transport, planning, skills and housing.

“This report throws down the gauntlet for all parties to turn their recent interest and pledges around cities and devolution into a clear plan to grow jobs and businesses, and improve quality of life throughout the United Kingdom.”