Thu Sep 19 05:32:30 UTC 2024: ## Government Approves Devolution Deals for Hull, Lincolnshire, Lancashire, and Devon
The UK government has approved devolution deals for Hull and East Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Lancashire, and Devon, granting these regions greater control over local services and resources. If approved by Parliament, the deals will lead to the election of mayors in Hull and East Yorkshire by May 2025, with responsibility for housing, job creation, and public transport.
Combined county authorities, responsible for education, will be established for Lancashire and Devon and Torbay in early 2025.
The deals also include additional funding for the regions: £24 million annually for Greater Lincolnshire and £13 million for Hull and East Yorkshire.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized the aim of rebalancing power from Westminster to local communities. She stated, “This agreement will ensure local people will have a seat at the table as we drive forward our plans to deliver economic growth, and unleash the potential of towns and cities which have been neglected for far too long.”
While the deals have received support from some local leaders, criticism has emerged from others who believe the area doesn’t need additional layers of government. The deals are seen as a way to empower regions and boost local economies, with some councils expressing hope that the increased control will lead to positive changes.
The government is also progressing with four non-mayoral devolution deals while resuming talks with Norfolk and Suffolk councils, previously approved by the Conservative government.
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