6
IN VIEW
Special Report by Ged Henderson
THE DEVO JOURNEY BEGINS
After many false starts, public rows and much frustration across the county it appears Lancashire has finally got its devolution deal.
For supporters it is a matter of celebration that the impasse is over and Lancashire is finally on the devo bus, along with optimism for the journey ahead.
However, there are still voices of disquiet, with the leaders of several of the county’s district council leaders less than enthusiastic about the scope of the deal and their part in the new combined authority.
The historic deal was signed at a ceremony at Lancaster Castle with government levelling up minister Jacob Young putting pen to paper along with the leaders of Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen councils.
The county’s three top-tier councils had been involved in intensive negotiations with central government to get it over the line.
The Lancashire Level Two devolution deal is now subject to local consultation, ratification by the constituent councils, and parliamentary approval.
It gives Lancashire more control over its powers and budgets, which will be overseen by a newly- formed combined authority.
The devolved powers will include local skills
provisions, including adult education functions, transport and budget. There will also be new powers to utilise compulsory purchase to drive area-based regeneration and build more affordable homes.
Lancashire LEP will be integrated into the combined authority and a Lancashire Business Board will be created in order to give independent local businesses input into the strategic economic planning.
A total of £20m will be provided to Lancashire Combined County Authority (CCA) along with a further £1m to support the authority in the early stages of the deal. The adult education budget will also be devolved.
Supporters say it will give Lancashire a stronger voice on the regional and national stage, ensuring the county does not miss out on vital funding and other opportunities.
In contrast, critics have described it as underwhelming in terms of the cash and its ambition. The lack of an elected mayor, which neighbouring Manchester and Liverpool have, also remains an issue among some local leaders along with the fact the district councils will not have voting rights on the new combined authority.
Signing the document, levelling up minister Jacob Young said: “This marks a significant milestone as we finalise the Level Two devolution agreement with Lancashire.
“This transformative deal is set to channel additional resources and authority away from Whitehall, empowering local communities.
“In a region with a rich history of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, Lancashire’s prowess will be further harnessed through this arrangement, unlocking the full economic potential of the entire area.”
Phillippa Williamson, leader of the county council, said: “This is about shaping the future of Lancashire for many years to come, and ensuring we are able to make local decisions to benefit all who live and work here.
“I truly believe the time is now for us to use this opportunity to secure more investment and deliver better outcomes for our local communities.”
Those behind the deal believe it will be good for Lancashire businesses. Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen council, said: “Lancashire is losing ground to other economies in the North West and it is now surrounded by combined authorities with devolution deals.
“There is a need for change – and devolution provides that opportunity for change and to make sure our businesses and economy grow, directly benefiting the people we serve.
“Devolution is a journey and not a one-off event – Greater Manchester is on its seventh
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