Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority officially created
Powers will shift from Westminster to local leaders
The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority has been officially created today (24th February).
This grants local leaders more control - control usually held by Westminster.
The authority combines Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Warrington Borough Council.
Residents are set to elect their first Mayor in May 2027, until then, the leaders and deputy leaders of the previous councils will be in charge.
The new Combined Authority is set to unlock at least £650 million in funding over the next 30 years.
Their first meeting is set to take place in April 2026.
"well-placed to deliver better jobs, better transport and real opportunity"
Minister for Devolution, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, said: “This is a fantastic step for Cheshire and Warrington, marking a milestone in this government's mission to shift power out of Westminster and into the hands of the people who know their communities best.
"With over £650 million in investment unlocked through devolution, I have every confidence that the region will go from strength to strength.
“Working alongside neighbouring Mayors and with a stronger voice on the national stage, Cheshire and Warrington is well-placed to deliver better jobs, better transport and real opportunity for its residents."