The leader of Westmorland and Furness Council Cllr Jonathan Brook has today announced to Westmorland and Furness councillors that he has submitted on behalf of Westmorland and Furness Council a letter to government officially expressing the councils interest to progress with Cumberland Council devolution discussions with government that if successful and agreements reached would see a new Cumbria Combined Authority with a directly elected Mayor for Cumbria.
The new Government is set to publish a new devolution paper for England announced in the king’s speech but is actively progressing devolution with a letter sent to all councils not currently covered by devolution inviting councils to commence discussions on devolution.
Cumbria is now the only county in the North of England without a devolution deal agreed or in place.
North Yorkshire that underwent local government changes in April 2023 has already agreed a deal and has a combined authority and mayor who was elected in May 2024.
Leader of Cumberland, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “Devolution is an exciting prospect, and we are keen to see how it can enhance our collaborative efforts and drive positive change for the people of Cumberland.
“We continue to work with Westmorland and Furness Council on a variety of hosted and shared services. The relationship between the two councils is as strong as ever, and the CLEP transfer is a catalyst for us working together on the economic prosperity of Cumbria.
“We are fully supportive of key developments underway within the wider region and know there is real benefit to us working together to create a strong voice for Cumbria.”
Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “This is a real milestone for the two new councils and shows genuine commitment from both to work together and achieve the very best outcomes for the people we represent.
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