People given power to shape devolution, says Hull council leader
People in East Yorkshire can have their say on devolution plans
The leader of Hull City Council has insisted that the ongoing public consultation on devolution plans will enable people to have a say in what comes next for the region.
Devolution would bring East Riding Council and Hull City Council into a Mayoral Combined Authority, with a directly elected mayor to represent East Yorkshire as a whole.
The two councils have said the deal would bring £400m investment over the next 30 years to boost jobs, transport and housing.
Council leader Mike Ross said: "These are issues that really affect people's day-to-day lives, so this consultation is really important and I hope people come along because it does help shape what happens going forward."
"This is around bringing more investment, and better-paid jobs to the area that people need. Hull has been left behind for far too long, we've missed out on so much over the years because we haven't been part of devolution - this is the closest we've ever got and I want to see Hull grab that opportunity and get what the city deserves."
The public consultation runs until 27 February, after which the results will be sent to government and draft plans are sent back to the council for approval, before being put to parliament.
If that process goes smoothly, the Hull and East Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority could be created next winter, with a mayor elected in May 2025.
What do people think of devolution?
Janet Allwood from Hull came to the drop-in, and despite initially being against the plans, said: "It's complicated, but you've got to read through it, and once I got through it, I agree, and I think it's going to be beneficial.
"I think everyone should have a say - whether everyone takes part is a different matter but it's important we have our say; it affects us all."
Mark Jull said: "People are working but still having to go to foodbanks - that's the core thing that I think the government should be looking at. If they have devolution and allow local councils more control that would help - I think you've got to look at people who are here."