Levelling up Minister visits Norfolk and Suffolk to sign devolution deals
It will give local people more of a say over where money is spent in both counties
Last updated 3rd Jan 2024
Levelling up Minister Lee Rowley is visiting Norfolk and Suffolk today to sign new deals which will see leaders in both counties get the power to make more decisions for themselves.
There's a promise of £1 billion in extra cash to invest into projects in local communities and local leaders will also get more of a say over where new homes should be built.
One of the biggest changes will see both counties elect the leader of local County Councils. That's a bit different from the elected mayor promised by Rishi Sunak in the Autumn Budget, but it will still see voters here getting more of a say over their leaders.
The additional powers will also allow officials to get more involved in decisions on things like housing, developments and adult education.
Speaking ahead of deal signing ceremonies in Suffolk and Norfolk today, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove MP said:
“Empowering strong local leadership is key to levelling up and ensuring we spread opportunity and unlock the economic potential of communities across the country.
“I am delighted to sign two further historic deals for Suffolk and Norfolk that will see communities handed hundreds of millions of pounds to use as they – not Whitehall - see fit.
“Ultimately it is local people who know what is best for their areas and it is my job to make sure local leaders have the levers to address the issues unique to them.”
"This devolution deal is the first of its kind between the Government and a county council"
Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
“This devolution deal is the first of its kind between the Government and a county council, making it a truly historic moment for Suffolk. The deal recognises Suffolk’s ambitions, would put more powers in the hands of local people and bring more than half a billion pounds of investment into the county.
“On the table are greater decision-making powers around transport, infrastructure, skills and more resources to help us achieve our net zero ambitions. Ultimately, this significant additional investment will improve the lives and outcomes of Suffolk’s residents.
“Devolution is a journey, not a one-off event. This deal for Suffolk is the first step towards an exciting future for our great county.”
Norfolk County Council leader, Councillor Andrew Proctor, said:
“I’m delighted that Norfolk is well positioned to gain additional powers and money to improve people’s lives, thanks to the County Deal we have agreed in principle with the Government.
“The aim is for decisions and funding previously controlled in Westminster to be agreed in Norfolk, for Norfolk.
“Striking a deal will help us to boost our economy through jobs, training, housing and development, to improve our transport network and to support our environment.
“Getting to this point shows that the Government sees Norfolk as a can-do county. I’m confident that we can make a success of this and that more powers and funding would follow.”