- UK population mid-2024: about 69 million (up from about 50 million in 1950)
- Net migration: peaked at about 900,000 in the year to June 2023 (ONS), then fell sharply
- Fertility rate, England and Wales, 2022: 1.49 children per woman (replacement level = 2.1)
- Population aged 65+: 18% (2024); projected 25% by 2045
- GDP per head: London £63,000+ vs North East about £27,000
- Life expectancy gap: Kensington & Chelsea 83.3 years vs Blackpool 74.3 years
- Consett Steelworks: closed 1980; 3,500 jobs lost in a town of 30,000
- MediaCityUK: 10,000+ jobs; 250+ companies; £1 billion+ investment since 2011
- BBC North relocation: 1,500 staff moved from London to Salford 2011
- London house prices: ~£520,000 average (2024) vs ~£160,000 North East
- London diversity: ~40% of population born abroad; 300+ languages spoken
- HS2: Phase 1 under construction (delayed, over budget); northern part cancelled October 2023
- UK superfast broadband: 97% of premises (2024)
This key facts covers Key Statistics — The Changing UK within A Changing UK in the 21st Century for GCSE Geography. Revise A Changing UK in the 21st Century in UK in the 21st Century for GCSE Geography with 15 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 8 of 15 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for A Changing UK in the 21st Century
Which of the following best describes why the UK's population is aging?
Define the term 'aging population' and give one consequence for the UK.
Quick recall flashcards
What is a brownfield site?
Previously developed land (e.g. a former factory or derelict industrial estate) that can be redeveloped — without using up open countryside.
What is the green belt?
Designated land around major UK cities where most development is prohibited, to prevent urban sprawl and preserve countryside.