Devolution – Mayoral Combined County Authorities
There is a proposal to combine Norfolk and Suffolk into one authority with an elected Mayor. There is an initial consultation details and other information below.
Published: 18 March 2025
Daniel Elmer, Leader of South Norfolk Council, has issued the following information to Councils:
Norfolk and Suffolk have been placed on the Devolution Priority Programme (DPP), following a request from both County Councils to join the programme and delay their County elections in 2025. The DPP is for areas wishing to pursue establishment of a Mayoral Strategic Authority (also known as a Combined Authority). This will be with a view to inaugural mayoral elections in May 2026.
Government have recently released a consultation on the proposed establishment of a Mayoral Combined Authority across Norfolk and Suffolk. For context, the proposed Combined Authority will led by a Mayor, with Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council having constituent and voting seats (district councils will not have a constituent seat). Devolved power and funding would be passed to the Combined Authority who will make decisions for Norfolk and Suffolk on topics such as strategic transport, housing, growth and the environment.
The LGA have released a really useful FAQs and glossary all to do with Devolution and LGR which you may find helpful: Devolution and local government reorganisation FAQs and glossary | Local Government Association
Make sure you have your say – follow this link to submit your thoughts to Government. This closes on 13 April. Norfolk and Suffolk devolution consultation – GOV.UK