Leaders welcome Devolution White Paper

The Leaders of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils are optimistic that they can work with Government to progress proposals for the Heart of Wessex Mayoral Strategic Authority following the publication of the Devolution White Paper.  
 
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 the publication of the Devolution White Paper as a significant step forward in our journey towards achieving devolution for the Heart of Wessex region. This milestone reflects the Government’s commitment to empowering local communities and enabling regions like ours to collaborate on our shared vision.
 
“Government has made it clear that if strategic authorities are going to maximise the funding opportunities available devolution deals will require a mayor and ministers will be able to impose mayors and geographies on local councils. The establishment of the Heart of Wessex Mayoral Strategic Authority represents a fantastic opportunity to have a champion for the Wessex region who will be able to deliver meaningful change for our residents and advocate for our interests in Westminster.  This will also offer the likely opportunity for increased funding and investment to our council regions.  We want to make the Heart of Wessex a thriving region whose unique interests are heard and understood by central government.
 
“This proposal ensures clear, accountable leadership to drive economic growth, improve public services, and invest in vital infrastructure across the region. This model will see additional powers handed down from central government and redefine local decision-making, unlocking significant opportunities for our residents and businesses.
 
“The Heart of Wessex encompasses real strengths in sectors such as defence, digital, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and clean energy, and devolution offers the opportunity to secure additional funding for the critical infrastructure needed with the ability to attract additional private sector investment.  
 
“We have made clear our strong desire to be considered in the first tranche of devolution agreements. We look forward to working with Government to discuss how quickly we can progress devolution to lead change in local government.”
 
If the devolution proposal is approved, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire councils will continue to exist and are expected to have the same responsibilities as they do now. The offer to BCP Council and Swindon Borough Council to join the Heart of Wessex partnership remains open.