Today marks a major milestone for Cumbria as the Government has laid the Statutory Instrument in Parliament to formally establish the Cumbria Combined Authority. This is the final legislative step before the creation of a new Mayoral Combined Authority for our region early next year.
Elections for Cumbria's first Mayor will take place in May 2027.
Devolution means more investment for Cumbria
Under this deal, Cumbria will receive a minimum of £333 million over the next 30 years, and the ability to bid for additional Mayoral Investment Funds on top of this. This funding will help unlock critical infrastructure projects, including rail and road upgrades, boosting connectivity and economic growth across the county.
The new Cumbria Combined Authority will be given powers that are currently held by Westminster, enabling us to:
- Develop a single integrated transport plan for Cumbria, improving public transport and connectivity.
- Drive regeneration and housing projects tailored to local needs.
- Strengthen environmental resilience and sustainability across our communities.
- Invest in skills and training designed around local employers’ needs, creating more pathways to well-paid jobs and supporting economic prosperity.
Giving Cumbria a national voice
Through their seat on the Council of Nations and Regions, Cumbria’s mayor will ensure Cumbrian priorities on energy, transport infrastructure and regeneration are represented at the heart of government decision making
The Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
"This is a historic moment for Cumbria. Devolution will deliver more investment for residents’ priorities, including funding for improved infrastructure, and will mean decisions are made closer to the people they affect.”
The Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, Cllr Jonathan Brook, said:
“This is a significant step towards establishing a combined authority. This will help secure additional funds and powers for Cumbria, that would not have been available to the two councils alone.
“We continue to discuss with government, what further benefits devolution can offer residents, communities and businesses.”
More information can be found on the Cumbria Combined Authority website: https://cumbriacombinedauthority.co.uk/
