Norfolk businessman urges County Hall to approve proposed devolution deal for Norfolk

A businessman from Norfolk is urging local-decision-makers to give the green-light to the proposed devolution deal, for our county.

Norfolk County Council's cabinet will today discuss where to accept, renegotiate or decline Government plans for a county mayor and £600 million in funding, over 30 years

Last December, Norfolk County Council and the Government signed an 'in principle agreement' to transfer key powers and funding to Norfolk.

This all includes funding for transport, brownfield regeneration and skills.

Andrew Bracking is from sales training company- Sales Geek, based in Norwich says: "Like most things in this world now things operate really slowly but businesses are crying out for this, it's probably waited too long.

"If we can reduce the uncertainty about the future you will see businesses thrive in Norfolk."

He told us why he supports the move: "It would be essentially managed locally, there's no one better than local community and local Government really to understand what is required for local people and businesses."

What are the options?

1. Proceeding with the current, in principle deal, which would see voting for a directly elected leader in May 2024 – a year ahead of the county council elections.

2. Proceeding with the current, in principle deal, but with voting taking place in May 2025, alongside the county council elections, after the Government agreed to allow this option to be considered.

3. Going back to Government and negotiating a level two deal, which would mean Norfolk wouldn’t receive the £20 million per year investment fund and other funding and powers over transport and brownfield sites - but would have adult education funding devolved to the county

4. Deciding not to proceed with a devolution deal.

"There are four clear choices"

County council leader, Councillor Kay Mason Billig, said: “Over the last year, we have consulted the public and partners on the current deal and continued talks with the Government about potential further benefits.

“There are four clear choices. Cabinet will consider the potential benefits of each approach and then make a recommendation to full council.”

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