Council leaders call for Wessex devolution deal ahead of financial settlement
Leaders say devolution could unlock billions in economic growth
Council leaders in Wessex have urged the government to push forward with a devolution deal for the region as the Local Government Financial Settlement is expected this week.
The appeal comes from leaders of Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) Councils, who argue that their existing unitary authority status makes Wessex well-placed for devolution. According to the English Devolution White Paper, enhanced funding is linked to such deals, sparking concerns that Wessex could miss out without one.
Cllr Nick Ireland (Dorset), Cllr Bill Revans (Somerset), Cllr Ian Thorn (Wiltshire), and Cllr Millie Earl (BCP) said:
“We are calling on government to act now and not miss out on the opportunities that Wessex has to offer - we are ready to go now with a deal and any delay by government risks holding our region back.
Government has the power to accelerate investment and drive growth in the Wessex region, delivering better outcomes for our communities and better value for taxpayers. We urge government to let Wessex take its place alongside other fully unitary areas.”
Analysis from the councils suggests that creating a Strategic Authority for Wessex could provide major benefits for the region. These include closing the funding gap, unlocking an estimated £16 billion in additional GVA over 30 years, and attracting investment in key sectors such as defence, clean energy, digital technologies, and life sciences.
The final decision on devolution lies with government ministers, who will decide whether Wessex can move forward with a future deal.