North East mayor plans backed by Gateshead

Gateshead Council appears set to rejoin six other local authorities in the North East working to bring an elected mayor to the region.

Gateshead had previously rejected a proposed devolution deal earlier this year due to concerns over financial settlements from Westminster, despite Durham, Northumberland, Newcastle, Sunderland, North Tyneside and South Tyneside councils all voting favour.

A report from Gateshead Council's chief executive and other senior officers has recommended they rejoin the process, stating that is is the only way ‘to ensure that Gateshead plays a full and equal part in decision making processes’.