North Somerset is poised to become a member of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) by the end of 2026 or early 2027, signaling a significant shift in regional collaboration and governance. This move follows a September council vote to begin the official process, reversing North Somerset’s decision from 2017 when it initially opted out of joining WECA.
North Somerset Council leader Mike Bell expressed strong support for the transition, stating, “The mayoral authority is a force for good in the region — we need to be part of it.” He acknowledged that not joining WECA initially was a “mistake,” underscoring the vital role mayoral strategic authorities play in driving growth and ambitious regional plans.
West of England Mayor Helen Godwin echoed this sentiment, calling the inclusion of North Somerset a “no brainer.” She highlighted a recently negotiated agreement as a “real vote of confidence” from the government, which includes an immediate £15 million fund for short-term local projects upon North Somerset’s entry. While spending decisions are still pending, Mayor Godwin assures that residents will see tangible benefits quickly.
READ MORE: Live: Police Dismantle Cannabis Farm in Bath Building
READ MORE: Average Cost of Fixing Potholes in Somerset Revealed
The governance leaders from Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset, and North Somerset are scheduled to convene on January 30 to approve a six to eight-week public consultation on the proposal. This public engagement phase will allow local communities to share their views on joining WECA. Mike Bell encouraged widespread participation, emphasizing the opportunity to maximize local benefits from devolved powers and funding.
This integration aligns with Labour’s broader English devolution reforms mandating council inclusion in strategic authorities. The government’s commitment to cover up to £1 million in associated costs alleviates previous financial concerns for North Somerset, whose council leader described this support as “good news.”
Following the consultation, government ministers will review the findings ahead of summer, with final approval required from the Secretary of State. Subsequent legislation and formal agreements are expected to cement North Somerset’s membership, potentially by late 2026 or early 2027.
Despite the transition timeline, the next West of England mayoral election won’t occur until 2029. Residents of North Somerset will spend approximately two years under a mayor they did not elect. Mayor Godwin pointed out that the combined authority operates through committee decisions involving all council leaders, minimizing unilateral authority.
In recent months, North Somerset has already collaborated closely with WECA on initiatives including the reopening of the Portishead Railway and the “kids go free” bus program, which has facilitated 1.1 million free bus journeys. Since May 2024, North Somerset has even participated as an observer in WECA’s committee meetings.
Some have expressed concern that rejoining WECA might resemble a return to the former County of Avon, a Bristol-centric county dissolved in 1996 due to unpopularity. Mike Bell firmly dismissed these fears, clarifying that mayoral combined authorities differ fundamentally from traditional county councils. North Somerset Council and its local services will remain intact, while membership will unlock new opportunities for growth, funding, and regional influence.
In Bell’s words, “That’s not going back to Avon — that’s looking to the future and making the most of the opportunities we’ve got together.”