Devolution update: Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils confirm support for Devolution Priority Programme
Dear All
I am writing to you with an update on our expression of interest for Wessex devolution.
At an extraordinary full council meeting yesterday (Thursday 9 January), Wiltshire councillors voted to support me writing to Government, along with the Leaders of Dorset and Somerset Councils, requesting the inclusion of Wessex in the Devolution Priority Programme. I can confirm that the letter has now been formally submitted.
Government wishes to progress devolution at pace and we remain committed to being at the forefront of transformation in local government. Our Wessex proposal aligns well with the aims of the White Paper, encompassing a population of approximately 1.5 million, with scope for further growth should other councils join the partnership.
I have issued a joint statement to the media with the Leaders of Dorset and Somerset Councils which you can read at the link below.
I'd like to re-emphasise that this is not a merger of the three councils. Each council will remain independent, continuing to serve its local communities as individual authorities.
Should Wessex join the Devolution Priority Programme, in the coming months Government will undertake public consultation and if approved, mayoral elections would take place in May 2026.
Government has made it clear that if strategic authorities are going to maximise the funding opportunities available, devolution deals will require a mayor. We can either look now to create a Mayoral Strategic Authority in a geographical footprint that works for Wiltshire, which I believe Wessex does, or wait and be forced into an authority in a few years that may not suit our needs. By working together across councils now, we can secure better funding, drive local improvements, and make decisions that benefit our region.
Very best wishes
Cllr Richard Clewer
Leader of Wiltshire Council
