Devolution plans move forward
Published: 17 July 2025
Plans to create a new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) for the region have reached a new stage, following confirmation from the government that it will proceed with the necessary legislation.
Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council, and the Isle of Wight Council are working closely with government on the legislative framework that will underpin the new powers to formally establish the new MCCA.
The aim is to transfer certain powers and funding to the local level, focusing on areas such as transport, housing, infrastructure, and economic development.
If agreed by the authorities and then approved by Parliament, elections for the new Mayor will take place in May 2026.
Today’s (Thursday) announcement follows the introduction of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill to Parliament last week.
The government’s Devolution Priority Programme aims to create Mayoral Strategic Authorities across the country.
These bodies would take on responsibilities currently managed by national departments, while existing local councils would continue to deliver day-to-day services.
The Isle of Wight was included in the fast-track phase of the programme earlier this year.
It is important to note that the creation of a Mayoral County Combined Authority is not the same as Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), which is a separate process currently running in parallel.
The proposed MCCA would not replace or merge existing councils. Instead, it would operate as a strategic regional body, led by a directly elected Mayor, with new powers and funding devolved from central government.
Local councils, including the Isle of Wight Council, would continue to deliver local services as they do now.
Council leader, Councillor Phil Jordan, said: "I welcome the announcement from government on devolution. They have set out their approach to what they see as opportunities of additional funding and transfer of powers from Westminster heralding a new approach to localised services and decision making.
"Working with our area partners, and this includes on crucial cross-Solent travel issues, we are committed to improving the community that is the Isle of Wight.
"The councils involved continue to work together, as well as with government, in moving forward to understand the legal and procedural steps."
Isle of Wight councillors will have the opportunity to review and consider any proposed devolution arrangement later in the year.