Mayoral authority pathway for Lancashire revealed

Lancashire's devolution ambitions were included in the government's Budget today – with local leaders saying it will pave the way for greater powers, investment and local decision making.

The announcement follows discussions between local government, devolution and regional growth minister Jim McMahon and leaders of the Lancashire Combined County Authority (CCA).

In the Budget documents, published following chancellor John Healey's speech to the House of Commons at midday, the government revealed it was in the final stages of agreeing 10 new devolution agreements - including a mayoral strategic authority for Lancashire.

In recent correspondence with government, leaders of Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council and Blackpool Council, writing as the CCA, reaffirmed their commitment to exploring what deeper devolution could mean for the county.

The Budget announcement is being seen as a 'positive recognition' of the progress Lancashire has made through the establishment of the CCA and the strong partnership working between the county's three upper tier authorities and stakeholders.                                                                   

A statement issued through the county council said: “The leaders have made clear that Lancashire is well positioned to secure more powers, investment and influence comparable to other areas of the country. They have also pledged to continue discussions with government to understand further opportunities and support that could form part of any future devolution arrangements.

“Any move towards deeper devolution will be subject to public consultation in Lancashire and subsequent formal decisions by each of the three constituent councils and the CCA.”

Stephen Atkinson, chair of the CCA and county council leader, said: “This is an important step forward for Lancashire. Securing greater investment is vital if we are to deliver better opportunities, stronger communities and sustainable growth for our residents and businesses.

“We are expecting more information from the government next week, and as a CCA we will consider the proposals before deciding on next steps.

“It is vital Lancashire residents also have a voice in any discussions about further devolution and, as we develop the proposals, we will undertake widespread consultation with residents and business.

“We will always put the people of Lancashire front and centre before making decisions about the county’s future."

Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “We’ve been listened to, and I feel genuinely excited and positive about the future. Over recent years, a huge amount of work has gone into establishing the Lancashire Combined County Authority, and it’s great to see that effort recognised.

“We are in a good position to secure substantial funding and have a greater say over how it is spent to directly benefit people in Blackburn with Darwen and across Lancashire. Most importantly, it will help make sure our communities aren’t left behind.

“We are talking about the sort of schemes you see in the big city regions now possible here. It could mean better buses and transport links, investment in our town centres and communities, more support for businesses, and new skills and job opportunities for local people.”

And Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Having a mayor for Lancashire is something we should be ambitious about. We have so much potential here in Blackpool and across our county, we need the powers and investment to make the most of it.

“Setting up the Lancashire Combined County Authority was the right thing to do. It took a lot of work to get us to this point, but without that groundwork we simply wouldn’t be in the position we are in today. This is the next important step in giving Lancashire a stronger voice and the ability to attract the investment our communities need.

“We have seen what mayors have achieved in other parts of the country, bringing in millions, and in some cases billions, of pounds to improve transport, build homes, support businesses and create opportunities for young people. This is also really important for our businesses, giving them the confidence to invest and grow, helping us attract new employers and creating more good jobs for local people.

“A mayor would give us the opportunity to be more ambitious for our county and for places like Blackpool and to make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Emma Swan, head of the commercial division at Lancashire headquartered Forbes Solicitors, said: “As a business with deep roots right across Lancashire, it was really positive to hear the Budget announcement for regional mayoral roles.

“A Lancashire mayor will help our region to realise devolution ambitions, unlocking local investment opportunities and championing decision making that directly benefits local businesses and communities.”

Sean Matthews, chair of the County Councils Network, also welcomed the news. He said: “We’ve got a commitment for devolution to go wider, now we need to ensure it goes deeper. In practice, this should mean that the areas announced today – and in future – have access to powers and resources on par with urban mayors.”