A Cumbrian MP says the county should act quickly to seek a ‘lucrative’ devolution deal with Government.
Mark Jenkinson, who represents Workington, has written to the leaders of the county’s new unitary authorities – Cumberland and Westmorland & Furness – urging them to open talks.
The two councils replace the existing district authorities and county council from April 1 and a devolution deal could see the introduction of an elected mayor overseeing their operation.
Devolution also means the Government puts cash and power in the hands of the mayor – it recently announced a deal with the North East worth £4.2 billion.
Mr Jenkinson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity, and I would not want to see Cumbria miss out by not acting on this quickly. Leaders of Cumbria’s two new unitary councils must act swiftly and decisively to prevent our county getting left behind.
“The Secretary of State’s door is open. Now is not the time for procrastination. The creation of the unitary council you will lead from April need not be the end of local government reform: it is simply a milestone in the process. A devolution deal is the ultimate prize.”
North Yorkshire’s emerging deal includes £18m a year investment funding for 30 years, including £13m over the next two years for the building of new homes on brownfield land.
That is alongside new powers improve and integrate local transport, powers to better shape local skills provision and to drive regeneration.
The elected mayor there will also assume the powers of the police, fire and crime commissioner, as well as integrating the area’s Local Enterprise Partnership to ensure truly joined-up leadership.
In his letter to Mark Fryer, Cumberland leader and Jonathan Brook, Westmorland & Furness leader, Mr Jenkinson said: “These deals will bring new investment and powers to local leaders – and I think we should be no less ambitious in our vision for Cumbria.
“A devolution deal of this kind would amplify Cumbria’s voice at the top table, giving the two unitary councils the power and the wherewithal to effect positive and meaningful change. After all, who better to understand the unique challenges facing our region than the people who live and work here?”
