Council Leader comments on English Devolution White Paper

Councillor Bray said: “This is rightly being seen by many as a 'power grab'. It risks centralising power in the hands of fewer people – notably Strategic Authorities and Strategic Mayors.

“It also distracts councils from delivering on key issues that residents care about – including housing, health, education, transport, and climate resilience.

“We need to take the time to explore and consider these proposals further with our local authority partners, stakeholders and communities, and be certain that any new model for our region is locally led and widely supported. It is absolutely vital that this process is collaborative and does not become a damaging distraction or undermine the critical public services district councils provide.

“Our local residents expect a system that will enable local authorities and any other bodies to work in partnership and at a scale that respects local communities. Any changes should empower communities and give them a real say in how their local area is run, not dictate to them from miles away.

“I am keen to explore these important issues with our local government partners over the coming weeks, and throughout will ensure that the views and needs of our communities are at the heart of everything we do.”