Greater local control, increased national influence and more than £1.1 billion of long-term investment are at the heart of a new devolution agreement between Norfolk and Suffolk, aimed at supporting jobs, improving infrastructure and growing the region’s economy.
Leaders from Norfolk and Suffolk have reached an agreement that sets out a shared vision for the new authority, with representation from both counties, clear accountability for investment decisions and independent scrutiny.
The two county councils have worked together to agree on this series of principles that will underpin the future mayoral authority and ensure it works fairly for residents across the whole region.
Under this agreement, any investment must be shown to benefit the wider region, and there will be regional equity in leadership as the Mayor and Deputy Mayor cannot come from the same county.
The proposed Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) would bring more decisions on transport, skills, housing and economic growth closer to the communities they affect, supported by a directly elected Mayor representing both counties.
Potential benefits include better coordination of transport investment across county boundaries, skills development that reflects the needs of local employers, and planning housing alongside the infrastructure needed to support it. A shared approach could also help attract businesses and investment and strengthen the counties’ influence with Government.
Subject to separate legislation, the MSA would take on governance of Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service and Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, with the Mayor assuming both counties’ Police and Crime Commissioner functions. The Chief constables will retain responsibilities for operational policing.
Norfolk renewed its consent to devolution on Monday 26 October. Suffolk’s Cabinet is due to consider renewed consent on Tuesday 10 November, and the agreement remains subject to Suffolk giving its consent.
Cllr Michael Hadwen, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
“I am delighted that Norfolk and Suffolk have signed this agreement and set out a clear shared ambition for devolution.
“This is a significant opportunity to bring more powers and investment to our region, giving our communities a stronger voice in the decisions that affect them. Devolution will help us to turbo charge economic growth, improve our infrastructure and create opportunities for future generations.
“This agreement with our neighbours in Norfolk demonstrates the collaborative approach both counties are taking as we work towards a new chapter that delivers greater benefits for residents and businesses.
“Suffolk’s Cabinet will now consider renewed consent on 10 November and, subject to that decision, we look forward to continuing discussions on the next steps."
Cllr Robin Hunter-Clarke, Deputy Leader of Norfolk County Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Devolution, said:
“Norfolk and Suffolk have the businesses, skills and ideas to achieve much more. Devolution would give us greater control over the investment and decisions needed to make that happen.
“We want to grow the economy by helping businesses expand, attracting new investment and creating better-paid jobs. That needs the right skills, better transport connections and housing supported by the infrastructure that gives businesses the confidence to invest and grow.
“Together, we can make a stronger case to Government for investment in our region. We want that investment to make a lasting difference across both counties, and we’ll expect every pound to be spent wisely.”
Subject to Suffolk renewing its consent, both councils would work with the Government on the remaining steps needed to establish the authority.
The authority would be established in early 2027 with Mayoral elections due to take place in May 2028.
