CIH welcomes the government announcement on mayoral strategic authorities

CIH welcomes the government announcement that mayoral strategic authorities in England will gain more powers and responsibilities, including receiving a share of income tax revenues to spend on local priorities.

The plans are an important step in going further on regional devolution in England and building on the progress made to decentralise power in recent years.

Tom Arnold, policy manager for regional engagement and devolution at CIH, said: “Regional devolution is absolutely essential if we are to build the homes and infrastructure we need. England is one of the most centralised advanced economies in the world and, despite recent progress on devolution, local leaders do not yet have the powers and funding they need to deliver growth and prosperity in the communities they represent.

“Today’s announcement that mayoral strategic authorities will receive a share of income tax is a crucial step in the right direction. Alongside the proposals announced today to give mayors stronger planning powers and more devolved funding, there is huge potential here in giving local leaders more control over the delivery of homes and infrastructure, and aligning them with local priorities.  

“It is important that fiscal devolution does not disadvantage any area, so we look forward to seeing more detail on how this policy will be designed. It is also crucial that local authorities on the frontline of service delivery are properly supported.”