Devolution deal for Norfolk and Suffolk

A devolution deal is to be signed today for Norfolk and Suffolk, guaranteeing the two counties over £1 billion.

Levelling up secretary Michael Gove will sign the devolution deals in Bury St Edmunds and Norwich.

The deals mean that Norfolk and Suffolk will be devolved power over their Adult Education budget.

The promised £1 billion is intended to give the counties the ability to drive growth and plan for the long-term with certainty whilst levelling up and unlocking their economic potential.

The two counties will directly elect the leader of the council from May 2024.

Gove said: "Empowering strong local leadership is key to levelling up and ensuring we spread opportunity and unlock the economic potential of communities across the country.

"I am delighted to sign two further historic deals for Suffolk and Norfolk that will see communities handed hundreds of millions of pounds to use as they – not Whitehall - see fit.

"Ultimately it is local people who know what is best for their areas and it is my job to make sure local leaders have the levers to address the issues unique to them."

Cllr Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, said: "This devolution deal is the first of its kind between the Government and a county council, making it a truly historic moment for Suffolk. The deal recognises Suffolk’s ambitions, would put more powers in the hands of local people and bring more than half a billion pounds of investment into the county.

"On the table are greater decision-making powers around transport, infrastructure, skills and more resources to help us achieve our net zero ambitions. Ultimately, this significant additional investment will improve the lives and outcomes of Suffolk’s residents.

"Devolution is a journey, not a one-off event. This deal for Suffolk is the first step towards an exciting future for our great county."

Norfolk County Council leader, Councillor Andrew Proctor, added: "I’m delighted that Norfolk is well positioned to gain additional powers and money to improve people’s lives, thanks to the County Deal we have agreed in principle with the Government.

"The aim is for decisions and funding previously controlled in Westminster to be agreed in Norfolk, for Norfolk.

"Striking a deal will help us to boost our economy through jobs, training, housing and development, to improve our transport network and to support our environment.

"Getting to this point shows that the Government sees Norfolk as a can-do county. I’m confident that we can make a success of this and that more powers and funding would follow."

Image by Ron Porter from Pixabay