Wiltshire Council to hold extraordinary meeting on devolution plans
The full council's being brought together on January 9th
Wiltshire Council is to hold an extraordinary full council meeting next week (Thursday 9th January) to discuss potential devolution plans.
The authority's looking to be part of a Heart of Wessex region, also including Dorset and Somerset - as part of a Government programme to pass on more powers to local bodies.
The meeting will allow councillors to discuss what devolution could bring for Wiltshire and the wider area.
They've said the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority for the region could 'unlock significant funding and investment, driving economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing services for residents'.
Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said:
“It is clear from the Devolution White Paper that all of England is going to end up in Strategic Authorities with mayors at their head. Whilst I am still not convinced of the need for a mayor in a rural area, Government has made it clear that if strategic authorities are going to maximise the funding opportunities available, devolution deals will require a mayor.
"We can either look now to create a Strategic Mayoral Authority in a geographical footprint that works for Wiltshire, which I believe the Heart of Wessex does, or wait and be forced into an authority in a few years that may not suit our needs.
“Therefore, it is crucial that all councillors come together to fully consider the benefits and implications of joining the Devolution Priority Programme. Before the council commits to supporting the Devolution Priority Programme, I am keen for all members to engage in this discussion and help us move forward in securing the best outcomes for our communities.”
If the Heart of Wessex is included in the Devolution Priority Programme this could lead to the establishment of a new strategic mayoral authority and election of a mayor for the region in May 2026.