Directly elected Mayor confirmed for Greater Lincolnshire as part of a devolution deal
720 million pounds will be made available over the next three decades
After years of debate and argument the Greater Lincolnshire area WILL now get a directly elected mayor as part of a devolution deal to bring more powers and funding to the region.
Places like Stamford, Bourne and Spalding may benefit from the new agreement.
It'll also see a total investment of 720 million pounds over the next three decades.
The Mayor will be elected in May next year and will have powers that cover transport, housing, skills and investment to shape the future of the area.
It's been agreed after years of talks.
The package is understood to be almost identical to the one agreed with the previous Government - with most of the new powers are being transferred from central Government.
This agreement will ensure local people will have a seat at the table as we drive forward our plans to deliver economic growth
The agreements will now go through it's final Parliamentary stage to allow the forming of the Combined County Authority.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner announced the deal will be getting to go ahead.
She said: “From day one we have been focused on rebalancing the power between Westminster and our communities, and that’s why today we’re pushing ahead with an agreement to give greater power to everyone in Greater Lincolnshire.”
She added: “This agreement will ensure local people will have a seat at the table as we drive forward our plans to deliver economic growth, and unleash the potential of towns and cities which have been neglected for far too long.
“Today marks the start of Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution journey, and we are committed to work hand-in-hand with local leaders to making a real difference to people’s lives.”
Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill (Conservative) described it as “great news”.
It will give us the ability to liaise directly with the government about what is best for our residents
He stated: “I’m pleased we are able to move forward with devolution to deliver growth in Greater Lincolnshire."
"We have always been clear that strengthening local decision-making with the needs and wants of our communities in mind, will give the best results for residents and businesses."
“Having a combined authority will give us the ability to liaise directly with the government about what is best for our residents, and we’ll be able to achieve our ambitious plans more quickly."
"The decision reflects our strong partnership work with other councils, and the hard work we have all put in to making sure it’s the right deal for our area.”