An order to form a combined authority has been presented to Parliament for MPs to debate.
This will take several weeks. Should Parliament reach a decision to progress, a new combined authority for York and North Yorkshire will be formed in the new year and mayoral elections will be held in May 2024.
This process is the next stage in devolution for York and North Yorkshire which will unlock funding for homes, transport, adult skills, business support and economic growth.
Following elections next May, the mayor for York and North Yorkshire will lead investment of £540m to be spent over the next 30 years. But this is just the start. The mayor will work with local leaders to create a long-term vision for our region and secure greater investment for the things that matter to us. This is about more power and resources in the hands of local leaders who know our area best, rather than those in Westminster.
Our mayor will be a strong voice and a champion for York and North Yorkshire businesses and communities. They’ll provide key leadership in public safety, taking on the role and functions of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.
The combined authority will bring 30 years of funding stability and enable long-term strategic planning. This is about new opportunities to invest in towns and high streets, unlocking development spaces and driving up investment in new and emerging sectors.
Devolution will provide skills investment matched to the needs of workforces, create an economic climate where innovation can thrive and open opportunities for growth and savings for businesses across York and North Yorkshire.
The next year will see significant opportunities for York and North Yorkshire businesses. Sign up to our newsletter to make sure you’re the first to know what’s going on. Visit www.ynydevolution.com.
For more information on the formation of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and the changes devolution will bring, see our infographic below.
