Leaders from Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset and BCP Councils with Baroness Taylor during her visit to the area. Picture: Somerset Council

Devolution moves a step closer for Wessex strategic mayoral authority

Paul JonesAugust 12, 20260 Comment0

DEVOLUTION for Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole could be moving closer.

Authorities for those areas, who have joined forces to represent a proposed new mayoral strategic authority in the form of a Wessex organisation, have been “invited to express interest” in the move by the Government.

It comes after an initial submission for the creation of the new authority was overlooked by government chiefs.

If approved, the move would see the authorities become part of a wider, strategic body, including a mayor – which the government says would unlock extra funding and decision-making opportunities.

Responding to the fresh invitation, the leaders of Dorset, BCP, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils – Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Millie Earl, Cllr Bill Revans, and Cllr Ian Thorn respectively – have issued a joint statement.

They said: “We have been clear Wessex is ready and uniquely placed to move forward with a Mayoral Strategic Authority, and we welcome the Government’s invitation to express an interest as the next step in securing devolution for our region.

“This is an exciting and once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring decisions closer to local people, unlock investment and drive long-term prosperity to every postcode across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

“As the only fully unitary area in England without a devolution arrangement, we already operate at the scale required and, with no need for local government reorganisation, we are ready to realise the benefits of devolution from day one.

“A Mayoral Strategic Authority has always been our aim as it would give Wessex the powers and funding that local leaders need to improve transport, housing, skills, infrastructure and lasting economic growth, while strengthening our contribution to the national economy.

“The case for Wessex is clear. We are united in our ambition and ready to seize this opportunity. We are committed to working with Government to secure a devolution agreement that matches the scale and ambition of our potential.”