Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Gary Sumner has praised the Government's announcement that the Thames Valley has been placed on its programme for the creation of a new mayoral strategic authority (MSA).
The council says that as a result of the announcement ambitions of council leaders across the Thames Valley to unlock economic, infrastructure and investment opportunities for the region are closer to being realised.
Chancellor John Healey announced in his Autumn Budget Statement that the Thames Valley region, alongside nine others across the country including Surrey, Hertfordshire and Wessex, will progress with plans for a mayoral strategic authority.
The announcement also came with a proposed allocation of £9.1m of funding from the Government’s 'Good Growth Funds' for investment in growth priorities as the MSA is developed.
Councillor Sumner said: “Today’s announcement is a landmark moment for the Thames Valley and recognition of what can be achieved when councils come together with a shared ambition for the future of our region.
“For too long, one of the UK’s most significant economic regions has lacked the strategic voice and powers needed to fully realise its potential.
"Devolution gives us the opportunity to change that, unlocking investment in transport, housing, skills and infrastructure, and creating opportunities for residents and businesses right across the Thames Valley.
“We now look forward to working with our partners to develop detailed proposals and engaging with residents, businesses and stakeholders as that work progresses.”
Leaders across Swindon, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, wrote to Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth Jim McMahon earlier this week, confirming their aspiration for an MSA for the region.
Following the Chancellor's announcement, the 13 councils within the region will now develop the proposal in advance of a stakeholder consultation planned for the new year.
A Thames Valley strategic authority, supporters say, will give local leaders more funding and control over areas such as transport, skills and employment support, inward investment and affordable housing to deliver better on things that matter to residents across the region.
Subject to approval of the consultation proposal by councils across the region in December and consideration of the consultation response, a formal proposal would then be submitted to Government in spring next year.
A new MSA in shadow form would then be established later in 2027 following the statutory decision-making process. This would be followed by mayoral elections in 2028.
A new MSA would be led by an elected mayor and Board comprised of representatives from all upper tier authorities. The MSA would bring new powers and funding opportunities to the region.
Local councils would continue to be responsible for delivering day-to-day services such as waste collections, social care, housing, schools, leisure and local planning.
Further information can be found at reading.gov.uk/devolution
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