Govt launches devolution consultations

The government has launched consultations in six areas on establishing mayoral-led authorities.

Following its announcement earlier this month on the areas joining its Devolution Priority Programme, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published proposals to form mayoral combined authorities or mayoral combined county authorities as part of its devolution plans in England.

The six areas of Cumbria, Chesire and Warrington, Norfolk and Suffolk, Greater Essex, Sussex and Brighton and Hampshire and the Solent have until April 13 to give their views on MHCLG’s plans.

The consultations, according to MHCLG, include questions on proposed geographies and how the mayoral combined (county) authorities will operate.

The housing department is seeking input from interested parties including local residents, businesses and public sector bodies. These areas will work towards holding mayoral elections in May 2026.

MHCLG said its Devolution Priority Programme would “bridge the gap” between the English Devolution White Paper, published in December, and the upcoming English Devolution Bill.

Areas on the programme will be given “sweeping powers,” including over housing and transport. They will now “work to an ambitious devolution timetable”.

The government has made devolution a focus since entering office. In July …