After nearly a decade, North Somerset is on the brink of joining the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), marking a significant change for the region. Following a council vote in September 2025, a public consultation is scheduled for February and March, with parliamentary approval anticipated to make North Somerset a full WECA member by late 2026 or early 2027.
Originally, when WECA was established in 2017, North Somerset deliberately chose not to join, concerned about repeating the “bad old days of Avon” when it felt overshadowed by Bristol. However, the current Council Leader views this as a misstep and insists WECA does not replace North Somerset Council but instead empowers it with new opportunities alongside the West of England mayor.
So, what will WECA membership mean for residents? Here are three major impacts:
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1. Increased Funding and Investment Opportunities
Joining WECA means access to larger government funding pots aimed at regional growth and development. Combined authorities led by mayors are now the preferred recipients of major government investments, covering public transport, housing, regeneration, skills development, and even home retrofitting projects. WECA’s proposed budget of £416 million for the next financial year highlights the scale of investment.
By joining, North Somerset expands WECA’s population by 23% to 1.2 million, potentially unlocking even more funding. The government has already pledged £15 million for short-term projects specifically if North Somerset joins, promising benefits that residents will see quickly.
2. Greater Influence and Decision-Making Power
Although North Somerset currently attends WECA meetings as observers, full membership grants it voting rights in the WECA Committee, the body’s main decision-making unit. This committee, comprising council leaders and led by the West of England mayor, approves major financial decisions and strategies.
Beyond funding approvals, being part of WECA enables North Somerset to collaborate on region-wide challenges such as transportation and housing, fostering greater cross-border cooperation. This collaboration aims to ensure North Somerset’s needs and priorities are fairly represented and addressed.
3. Participation in West of England Mayoral Elections
North Somerset residents will gain the right to vote for the West of England mayor every four years. While the next mayoral election isn’t until 2029, means North Somerset will spend a couple of years under the current mayor it did not elect, the eventual vote will give residents a direct say in regional leadership.
The West of England is politically diverse, spanning areas with a mix of Labour, Green, Liberal Democrat, Tory, and Reform Party supporters. North Somerset’s inclusion could significantly influence future mayoral outcomes, possibly positioning it as a kingmaker in tightly contested elections.
In summary, North Somerset’s move to join WECA promises substantial financial benefits, stronger political representation, and greater influence on regional planning and services. Residents can expect to see tangible changes that aim to drive growth and improve quality of life across the area.