Cumbria Combined Authority officially created
The new authority combines Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumberland Council
Last updated 24th Feb 2026
The Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA) has been officially created today (24th February), marking a significant milestone in the region.
The announcement follows the Government's Statutory Instrument made on 23rd February.
A Statutory Instrument is a form of legislation which allows ministers to create, change or update laws without a new Act of Parliament.
The new authority will combine Westmorland and Furness Council and Cumberland Council.
The council will be jointly led by the leaders of these two councils, before a new Cumbrian mayor is elected in May 2027.
The first meeting of the CCA is scheduled for 18th March at Redhills in Penrith, where initial priorities and decisions will be outlined.
The devolution will unlock an extra £333 million over the next 30 years.
The new combined authority also say it'll get new devolved powers from the government which wouldn't otherwise be available.
Joint leaders' statements
Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council and joint leader of Cumbria Combined Authority, said: “This is a significant moment for Cumbria.
“Over recent months we’ve been laying the groundwork so the Combined Authority can get off to a strong start. Now that it has been formally created, we can focus on delivering improvements that matter most to local people and communities.”
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council and Joint Leader of Cumbria Combined Authority, said: “The creation of the Combined Authority gives us a united, countywide voice and the opportunity to secure the investment Cumbria deserves.
“After months of preparation, we are ready to move forward on the things that will make a real difference: from better transport and skills, to support for local businesses.”