The UK government has committed to supporting devolution for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham after Lee Rowley, MP and parliamentary under secretary of state in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) confirmed the plans during a recent devolution conference.
Two of the key proposals discussed included how to develop the region’s existing expertise in green technology and setting up and coordinating smart integrated ticketing and enhanced concessionary fares schemes.
Speaking remotely at the event, Rowley said: “We all know there is more that can be done and the opportunities to do more are ones we should seriously consider.
“We have an unrivalled geographical position in our country, brilliant transport links, and fantastic entrepreneurial companies.
“We are serious about wanting to empower the East Midlands.”
Some of the conference attendees included leaders of Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council as well as other local political leaders, plus representatives for universities and colleges, emergency services, businesses, community groups and more.
On the agenda were devolution proposals for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham, with attendees being encouraged to participate in an ongoing consultation on the issue, which will be open until 9 January 2023.
Transport was one of several key areas that local leaders discussed in breakout sessions at the event, others being housing, skills, adult education and environment.
Local leaders signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year, following an announcement from the government offering new powers and funding, worth £1.14bn, for the area.
The four councils agreed to go ahead with a public consultation in the autumn in order to collect feedback from the public on the proposal.
Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Devolution is about getting a better deal for Derbyshire and the East Midlands and achieving a fair share for our region.
“It will bring us more money and mean we can make more meaningful decisions here, rather than in London.
“This deal will bring more and better jobs and opportunities for training, improve the local economy, result in better transport and housing, and accelerate our route to net zero.”
According to Nottinghamshire County Council, devolution could deliver the region revenue of £38m per year over a 30-year period, and would include about 2.2 million people, representing one of the biggest ever deals of this nature.
If accepted, a new regional mayor would create the first of a new form of combined county authority for the two counties and cities. To achieve this, legislation from central government is needed.
What’s more, current devolution plans cover the provision of an extra £16m for new homes on brownfield land, and control over several budgets, including the Adult Education Budget.
The councils have reportedly been working with central government to explore the details of devolution, alongside discussions with district and borough councils, businesses and other stakeholders.
