Ambitions from council leaders across the Thames Valley to unlock economic, infrastructure and investment opportunities for the region are closer to being realised.
The government announced on Wednesday 28 October, that the area has been placed on its programme for the creation of a new mayoral strategic authority (MSA).
John Healey, MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, announced in his autumn budget statement that the Thames Valley region and 9 other areas will progress plans for a mayoral strategic authority.
The announcement also came with a proposed allocation of £9.1 million from the government’s Good Growth Funds - for investment in growth priorities as the MSA is developed.
Leaders across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Swindon, wrote to Jim McMahon, OBE, MP, Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, earlier this week confirming their aspiration for an MSA for the region.
Following the announcement, the 13 councils within the region will now develop the proposal in advance of a stakeholder consultation planned for the new year.
A Thames Valley MSA will give local leaders more funding and control over areas like transport, skills and employment support, inward investment and affordable housing. This will allow them better deliver on things that matter to residents across the region.
Subject to approval of the proposal for consultation by councils across the region in December, and consideration of the consultation response, the formal proposal would then be submitted to the government in spring next year.
A new MSA in shadow form would then be established later in 2027 following the statutory decision-making process. This would then be followed by mayoral elections in 2028.
A new MSA would be led by an elected mayor and board comprised of representatives from all upper tier authorities. The MSA would bring new powers and funding opportunities to the region.
Local councils would continue to be responsible for delivering day to day services such as waste collections, social care, housing, schools, leisure and local planning.
Cllr Helen Purnell, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said:
“After many months of detailed work and discussion it is really great news that the government has agreed to place the Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority on its programme.
"The MSA will provide an additional significant boost to the area, which we welcome. It will bring millions of pounds of funding for housing, employment opportunities, transport and leisure to the area, which we wouldn’t be able to access otherwise.
"I look forward to working with my Thames Valley counterparts over the coming months to establish the MSA so our residents, businesses and our economy reap the full benefit.”
More information is available on the devolution hub.
