Council leaders from Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are actively lobbying the government to reinvigorate their devolution plans. After last year’s application to become a new strategic mayoral authority known as the Heart of Wessex was deferred, the councils remain determined to be included in the second tranche of government approvals.
Despite initial setbacks, the leaders continue discussions with the government, recently meeting Baroness Taylor of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to showcase regional progress and explore future opportunities. During her visit, Baroness Taylor was briefed on key initiatives, toured Porton Science Park, and participated in the opening of the Future High Street Fund’s Station Forecourt project at Salisbury Railway Station.
The government’s preference for combined authorities is clear, demonstrated by recent investments such as the £752 million allocated to the West of England Combined Authority for transport infrastructure. Wessex council leaders argue that their unitary councils are well-positioned to support the government’s devolution and growth objectives.
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In a joint statement, council leaders Millie Earl, Nick Ireland, Bill Revans, and Ian Thorn emphasized the partnership’s strengths in defense, clean energy, digital technology, and life sciences. They expressed confidence that a mayoral model would unlock further investment and innovation, benefiting both public and private sectors.
Baroness Taylor highlighted the government’s commitment to extending devolution across England, acknowledging Wessex’s ambitions but noting that timing and processes will depend on future ministerial decisions. She pledged the government’s continued support and readiness to engage with local aims to advance the devolution agenda.