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United Kingdom

Councillors raise doubts over proposed Wessex devolved region

Doubts about financial benefits and local power in a proposed Wessex region could shape how the autumn budget devolution plans progress for councils in the South West.

Photo: Hereford Times

What happened

Doubts are being raised about the benefits of devolution to create a Wessex region based around Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and the BCP council areas. Dorset Echo The plan was announced in the autumn budget, and council leaders in each of the authorities have welcomed the news. Dorset Echo Questions being asked include whether financial benefits will emerge, how they would be distributed and how long they might last. Dorset Echo Other questions concern who would hold the real power in the region and whether devolution would erode the status of traditional council areas. Dorset Echo

Around it

Separately, fresh backing has been given to a devolution partnership linking Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. Hereford Times Frustration followed after ministers did not announce a devolution deal for Gloucestershire last week. Hereford Times Devolution is the transfer of powers from central government to local leaders, often through a strategic authority led by an elected mayor. Hereford Times

Sources

  1. Dorset EchoDorset councillors' devolution doubts as Wessex region moves a step closer
  2. Hereford TimesFresh push to link Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire in huge shake-up

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