A recent public consultation reveals strong support for North Somerset joining the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). Out of 1,273 respondents over an eight-week period, 56.7% favored the council becoming part of the mayor-led partnership, while 37.6% opposed the move and 5.7% remained undecided. A detailed report of the consultation is forthcoming.
WECA, established in 2017, includes Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and Bath and North East Somerset, but North Somerset initially opted out. Now, with government encouragement for all councils to join combined authorities, North Somerset is moving forward with the process.
West of England Mayor Helen Godwin described North Somerset as the “missing piece” in the regional devolution jigsaw, highlighting the widespread support from local leaders, businesses, and residents. She emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership as the region progresses.
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North Somerset Council leader Cllr Mike Bell, who previously called the decision to abstain in 2017 a “mistake,” welcomed the consultation outcome. He stated that the public recognizes that unity will accelerate progress in addressing inequality and unlocking impactful funding to benefit the area.
Government funding increasingly flows through combined authority mayors. If North Somerset joins, WECA will receive an additional £15 million for short-term projects, alongside increased ongoing funding reflecting the enlarged population and territory.
Since May, WECA has secured around £1 billion in government investment, a sum expected to grow as the region’s influence strengthens, according to Mayor Godwin.
Despite this momentum, the proposal has faced controversy. Critics point out that joining WECA would re-establish borders reminiscent of the former County of Avon, which remains unpopular among some residents. Concerns have also been raised about democratic representation, as the next mayoral election is not until 2029, meaning North Somerset residents would be part of a combined authority led by a mayor they did not elect for several years.
Following the consultation, government ministers will review the findings. Full membership of WECA for North Somerset requires approval from the Secretary of State and parliamentary legislation, a process anticipated to complete by late 2026 or early 2027.