Wessex devolution deal moves forward after fears Dorset could miss out on investment
BCP and Dorset Council are set to join a new Wessex Mayoral Authority, following a devolution announcement in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget
Dorset’s MPs have welcomed progress on a major devolution deal for the region after warning that the plans came close to being derailed over the summer.
The Wessex Devolution Deal is intended to give local leaders greater powers and access to funding to support investment and coordinate projects across council boundaries, reducing the need for decisions to be made in Westminster.
Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes said he had worked closely with the Government to secure protections for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), including long-term funding that would not be redirected to other areas.
The proposals also include funded recognition of BCP’s distinct economic needs and strengths, spanning tourism, financial services, creative industries, clean energy and defence.
Specialist government support is intended to help BCP Council secure investment, while colleges, universities and business leaders would have a significant role in shaping future priorities.
MP Hayes said the region needed assurances that its urban economy would not be overlooked within a wider area that also includes rural communities.
“When the Chancellor offers you tens of millions of pounds for your town and the Prime Minister tells you Bournemouth is a priority for his government, you get around the table, negotiate good terms, and work to make the deal a success,” he said.
He added that he had pushed for protected funding and specialist support to strengthen BCP’s position in negotiations.
Mid Dorset MP Vikki Slade also welcomed the development, describing it as the culmination of work involving four councils and MPs across the region. She had helped initiate discussions while serving as leader of BCP Council.
MP Slade said Wessex had missed out when the first wave of devolution deals was announced in 2025, but argued that local collaboration had helped bring the proposal back on track.
She revealed that the project had nearly been lost during the summer, when an alternative proposal emerged for a foundation authority covering only Dorset Council and BCP Council.
“I have been committed to this project from the very beginning because I believe our area deserves the same opportunities for investment and growth that other parts of the country already enjoy,” she said.
Ms Slade said devolution would allow decisions on challenges crossing council boundaries to be made closer to the communities affected.
The deal’s progress marks an important step, but its significance will ultimately depend on how effectively the promised funding and powers are translated into local improvements.