Joint statement on BCP joining Wessex Devolution bid

In a joint statement, the leaders of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils, Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans, and Cllr Richard Clewer, said:

“We welcome BCP Council’s decision to confirm their interest in joining the proposed mayoral strategic authority for Wessex as part of the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme. This marks a positive step forward and would see the region encompass a population of approximately 1.9million, aligning with the aims of the White Paper.

“Devolution is about empowering local communities and enabling councils to make decisions that best reflect the needs and aspirations of the people they serve. By coming together under the Wessex banner, we can unlock significant funding to invest in vital infrastructure, skills development, and the green economy.

“BCP Council’s inclusion would strengthen the impact of our work together and help drive transformation in local government.”