Devolution bill - Why it matters for our region
It might not have made many headlines last week, but the new English Devolution and Community Powers Bill is significant news for our region. It devolves more powers locally which should in future help speed up new developments such as housebuilding and major infrastructure projects. As we develop our strategic approaches, including the all-important Local Growth Plan, it paves the way for Government to release increased funding to regions, and put more decision-making in the hands of local people. We published an initial response here.
Another key role for Mayors is giving the area a bigger voice. In my first two months, Hull and East Yorkshire has established a seat at the table for the first time at The Great North and Transport for the North partnership governance, and the Council of Nations and Regions. I’ve already used both as opportunities to raise our profile and make the case for our area.
You may well have already seen my commitment to working with key local businesses such as Vivergo Fuels, and the direct and supply chain jobs it supports including thousands of farmers. It is a vital part of the UK’s energy and chemicals sector, and its future is at risk. I am continuing to work hard to support them, both lobbying Government as talks continue, and maintaining the profile of the issue – which stems from a late clause added to the UK-US Trade Deal.