New cabinet role to lead on devolution and local government reform in Suffolk

Cllr Richard Rout has been appointed to the role – which comes as Suffolk is one of only six areas in the country chosen by the government to be fast-tracked for devolution and local government reform.

The reforms will see all six of Suffolk’s district, borough and county councils disbanded, to be replaced by one or more unitary (singular) authorities responsible for delivering all local services that are currently delivered by the different tiers of local government.

It will also see the election of a mayor (covering Suffolk and Norfolk) in May 2026, who will take control over strategic policy areas like transport infrastructure, economic development, health improvement and blue light services – along with devolved government funding to deliver positive change. The mayor would not run the unitary councils or have oversight of them.

Cllr Hicks said:

“These proposals represent the most significant changes to local government in Suffolk County Council’s 50-year history. This is a pivotal moment for our county, which presents an opportunity to streamline local government, reduce costs for taxpayers and deliver more effective services.

“Given the scale of these changes, I am creating a new cabinet role to lead this work. Cllr Richard Rout’s expertise and leadership will be crucial in guiding these reforms locally and working with our partners to ensure the best possible outcome for Suffolk and its residents.”

Alongside his new responsibilities, Cllr Rout will continue to lead on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), a role he held as deputy cabinet member prior to this reshuffle.

The new Cabinet and Deputies will now consist of:

• Richard Smith – Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Economic Development and Skills
• Beccy Hopfensperger – Cabinet Member for Adult Care
• Paul West – Cabinet Member for Ipswich, Operational Highways and Flooding
• Andrew Reid – Cabinet Member for Education and SEND
• Bobby Bennett – Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services
• Philip Faircloth-Mutton – Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality
• Chris Chambers – Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy, Planning and Waste
• Steve Wiles – Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection
• Richard Rout – Cabinet Member for Devolution, Local Government Reform and NSIPs
• Alexander Nicoll – Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy
• Nadia Cenci – Deputy Cabinet Member for Property and County Farms
• Debbie Richards – Deputy Cabinet Member for SEND
• Judy Cloke – Deputy Cabinet Member for Flooding