A note to users

We have produced the gross value added (GVA) estimates at lower-layer super output area (LSOA) level. This is a very small level of geography that should be used as a building block to derive bigger geographical areas. We produced the LSOA data (the building blocks) to allow users the flexibility to build their own geographies for analysis. We do not recommend comparing the LSOAs or middle-layer super output areas (MSOAs) directly. We recommend using the LSOAs to build up other areas of interest and/or to analyse small areas within larger areas of interest.

The LSOA data may not be directly comparable across nations because the levels of composition can vary hugely. This is because some small areas contain mainly (or exclusively) households, and others contain heavy industry. As explained in the main article, LSOA and equivalent geographies across the UK are defined differently, which calls for caution when comparing and/or interpreting the statistics. We therefore would not advise direct comparison across countries. However, the higher-level geographies that we published can be compared. For example, parliamentary constituencies and the GVA-per-job-filled estimates for towns and travel-to-work areas are more appropriate for comparing across the defined areas.

The data are also in current prices (not constant prices). Current price growth rates are driven by both volume and price changes, so users should be careful in interpreting growth in current price terms. If users have any queries about the use and interpretation of the statistics, they can email subnational@ons.gov.uk.