Devolution drive accelerates as new strategic authorities take shape
With the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act now on the statute book, ministers are pressing ahead with a wave of new mayors and strategic authorities handed powers over housing, transport and skills.
Eleanor Whitfield
Writer ·
- English Devolution Act received royal assent in April 2026
- 13 combined authorities and 6 combined county authorities now established
- New powers span transport, housing, skills, planning and economic growth
- Six areas confirmed for the Devolution Priority Programme
- Cumbria and Cheshire and Warrington combined authorities established in February
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