Mayoral Combined Authority backed by Southampton City Council

On Friday, January 10, the council submitted a joint bid to the UK Government for a Mayoral Combined Authority that would see local leaders be granted more decision-making power and funding.

It comes after councillors backed plans to be part of the government’s accelerated devolution initiative – that would see a combined strategic authority – as Hampshire, Isle of Wight, and Portsmouth councils also agreed to submit a joint expression of interest.

In a statement, leader of Southampton City Council, Lorna Fielker, said: “For our region, this programme will create a Mayoral Combined Authority covering the geography of the four councils, with mayoral elections taking place in May 2026.

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Leader of Southampton City Council, Lorna Fielker (Image: Newsquest) “The mayor would lead a cabinet of the leaders of each local authority with decisions only being implemented if the majority of the cabinet agree. The combined authority would give more decision-making powers and funding to locally elected representatives who understand what our area needs.

“Individual councils will still continue to deliver the same services but will be able to work more effectively together on big infrastructure and transport projects, planning and housebuilding initiatives, and skills and employment programmes.

“Moving decision making and funding away from central government into the hands of local people is something I have been pushing for since I took office and I have no doubt that this will help us deliver opportunities for economic growth, achieving net zero, and reducing inequality across the city.”

If accepted by the government, a public consultation would be scheduled to take place to give residents their say on the proposals.

Cllr Fielker added: “At the moment we do not have a clear idea of what this will look like, but I will be exploring the best possible solutions with the leaders of our neighbouring councils.

“This is the biggest change to local government in a long time, and we should not underestimate the challenges that lie ahead.

“However, I am optimistic that these changes will help address some of the inherent problems faced by the local government sector and help ensure local residents and businesses receive the services they need and deserve.”