Cumbria’s new combined authority has now been formally created.
The Government’s Statutory Instrument was made yesterday afternoon, Monday February 23, meaning the authority formally came into existence today, Tuesday February 24.
The combined authority will form a new partnership with Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness councils and the first official meeting of the new authority will take place at Redhills in Penrith on March 18.
At the meeting, members will begin setting out early priorities and key decisions for the months ahead.
For its first year, the combined authority will be jointly led by the leaders of the two constituent councils. This arrangement will remain in place until May 2027, when Cumbria will elect its first mayor.
Moving to a combined authority will unlock at least £333 million in additional long‑term investment over the next 30 years, as well as new devolved powers from national government.
The funds and powers are only available through a devolution deal, which requires both a combined authority and a directly elected mayor.
John Barradell, proposed interim chief executive of Cumbria Combined Authority, said: “The creation of the combined authority is a major step forward for Cumbria, and I’m excited about the opportunities it opens up.
“We’ve already seen a strong shared commitment to improving outcomes for residents, and what inspires me most is the belief across the county in what we can achieve together.
“The combined authority gives us the means to make a real difference, and I’m determined to turn that collective energy into positive change for communities across Cumbria.”
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.”
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.”
