In a significant development for the region, Hull and East Yorkshire’s journey towards greater local control took a major step forward as the government formally signed off on the area’s devolution deal. This agreement sets the stage for the creation of the Hull and East Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, with the first mayoral election scheduled for May 2025.
Leaders from Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, alongside local business representatives, have expressed their strong support for this landmark decision, which is expected to unlock significant opportunities for the region.
A new era for Hull and East Yorkshire
The confirmation of the devolution deal marks the beginning of a transformative era for Hull and East Yorkshire. The agreement, officially signed off by the government, grants local leaders greater autonomy in key areas such as transport, adult education, and housing. These new powers are expected to spur economic growth, improve local infrastructure, and open up a range of opportunities for communities and businesses across the region.
This move was confirmed by Jim McMahon, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, who praised the growing collaboration between Hull, East Riding, and Greater Lincolnshire. Greater Lincolnshire has also recently secured its devolution deal, further strengthening regional ties and the prospects for shared progress.
Leaders respond to the devolution deal
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, hailed the announcement as a long-awaited breakthrough for Hull and the surrounding area. He acknowledged the frustrations of being overlooked in previous devolution discussions, but expressed optimism for the future.
“After years of being left out in the cold on devolution, the people of Hull and East Riding can now get the fair deal they deserve,” he said. “This is a big step forward in unlocking huge investment into the city, achieved by the two local councils working together.”
Ross also highlighted the backing of local residents and businesses, reflecting widespread support for the devolution plans.
“This devolution deal was backed by residents and businesses right across our communities. I look forward to seeing it becoming a reality, including the mayoral election next May,”
he added.
East Riding Council welcomes future opportunities
Similarly, Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the opportunity for greater strategic collaboration between the two council areas.
“We’re delighted that the Hull and East Yorkshire devolution deal has been approved,” Handley said. “This will be a fantastic opportunity to unlock investment for the region and improve strategic collaboration between Hull and East Yorkshire council areas.”
Handley also noted the potential impact of the mayoralty in giving the region a stronger voice on the national stage.
“The mayoralty will provide a strong voice for the East Yorkshire region and support communities and local businesses,”
she commented.
Business community sees opportunities ahead
Local business leaders have also been quick to applaud the signing of the devolution deal, with Thomas Martin, chairman of the Hull and East Riding Business Engagement Board, noting that the deal brings long-sought opportunities for regional regeneration.
“Finally, the breakthrough that we in this region have been working towards for more than seven years,” Martin said, reflecting the business community’s efforts to advocate for local empowerment. “The politics and the economics have come together at last to create an exciting future for our region.”
Martin praised the determination of the local councils and expressed confidence that the new deal would help attract further investment to Hull and East Yorkshire.
“I commend both local authority leaders for their courage and determination to make this happen, and I believe that investors will see our region fully open for business,” he stated. “This is another significant step on our journey towards economic regeneration, and I look forward to further progress on multiple fronts.”
What the devolution deal means for the region
The Hull and East Yorkshire devolution deal is expected to bring in significant investments, fostering improvements in areas like infrastructure, transport, education, and housing. Local leaders will gain the ability to make decisions tailored to the specific needs of the region, without having to rely on central government direction.
The deal comes as part of a broader push for devolution across the UK, designed to empower regions and allow them to take greater control over their own futures. It builds on the momentum from other devolution agreements in areas like Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, and the West Midlands.
Hull and East Yorkshire’s devolution deal is particularly focused on:
- Transport: Enhancing local transport networks and improving connectivity.
- Adult education: Expanding skills development programmes to ensure the workforce meets the needs of modern industries.
- Housing: Addressing local housing needs and delivering more affordable homes.
As the region prepares for the introduction of a directly elected mayor, expected in May 2025, there is a growing sense of anticipation that Hull and East Yorkshire will now be better equipped to shape its own destiny. With both councils and the business community firmly backing the deal, this marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the region.
Key highlights of the Hull and East Yorkshire devolution deal:
- Powers over transport, adult education, and housing.
- First mayoral election set for May 2025.
- Strengthened regional ties with Greater Lincolnshire.
- Expected to unlock significant investment and boost economic growth.
Leaders are optimistic that this devolution agreement will create a more prosperous and connected future for the area, setting the stage for long-term economic regeneration and greater influence in shaping policies that directly impact local communities.
