Gloucestershire Councils Explore “Mercia” Combined Authority Proposal
Gloucestershire Councils Explore Combined Authority Proposal
Councils across Gloucestershire have welcomed the opportunity to explore the creation of a new “Mercia” combined authority, as proposed by central government ministers. The proposed authority would bring together local authorities in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire to pool resources and improve regional decision-making.
Details
The idea of a Mercia combined authority was raised in discussions between council leaders and ministers from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. The proposal aims to improve coordination on key issues such as transport, housing, and economic development across the wider region.
Councillor Sarah Avery, the leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, commented: “We’re keen to engage constructively with this proposal and understand how a combined authority model could benefit our local area. Closer regional collaboration has the potential to unlock new funding and investment opportunities.”
Leaders from Gloucestershire County Council and other district councils in the county have also welcomed the chance to explore the combined authority concept further. The next steps will involve more detailed talks between councils to assess the feasibility and potential benefits of establishing the new regional body.
What You Need to Know
– The proposal for a “Mercia” combined authority covering Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire was raised in discussions between council chiefs and central government ministers.
– Local authorities in Gloucestershire have agreed to engage with the idea and assess how a combined authority model could benefit the region.
– Further detailed talks between the councils will take place to evaluate the feasibility and potential advantages of establishing the new regional governance structure.
– For more information, contact Gloucestershire County Council on 01452 425000 or visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk.