Decision due in September on Norfolk and Suffolk devolution plans
If approved Norfolk and Suffolk would be led by an elected mayor.
Councillors in Norfolk and Suffolk will vote in September whether to support a deal to boost jobs, skills, transport and housing.
If approved, the Government’s proposed devolution deal would see powers and funding transferred from Whitehall to a new Norfolk and Suffolk combined authority, led by an elected mayor.
The news comes as Norfolk County Council’s strategic and corporate select committee considers a report on preparations for devolution.
Councillor Kay Mason Billig, leader of Norfolk County Council, said: “Our two councils have been working together to prepare for devolution, subject to receiving more detail from the Government on powers and funding for infrastructure, housing, economic development, jobs and skills.
Once we have that clarity, we will vote in September on whether to proceed.”
A devolution bill, which sets out more detail of the powers each area would receive, is expected to be published by the Government shortly.
If the two county councils vote in favour in September, the Government would start the Parliamentary process in the winter to set up a combined authority early next year. A Norfolk and Suffolk mayor would be elected in May 2026.