Devolution proposals for the North East must be ambitious and clearly set out the potential for growth – that’s the view of residents and businesses who took part in consultation.
During a series of public events held in March over 300 people gave their feedback on a set of outline devolution proposals put forward by the North East Combined Authority (neca).
The responses indicate that among communities, businesses and partners there is a strong level of support for neca’s 12 outline proposals.
These include proposals for investment in major transport infrastructure, the devolution of skills funding and proposals for a North East Investment Fund.
Analysis of the feedback has now been completed and details will be reported to members of neca when they meet next week (June 16).
The feedback will be used to help finalise the full devolution prospectus which will form the basis for discussion with the Government over the coming weeks and months.
Cllr Simon Henig, chair of neca, said: “During all of the consultation events across our area and at the meeting which took place in London with national politicians representing the North East, it was very clear that people strongly believe in devolution for the North East.
“The message we heard back loud and clear was that people want key decisions about our economy, our growth and our prosperity to be made here by people with local knowledge and understanding.
“People also felt very strongly that achieving growth in the North East economy is an important part of supporting growth in the national economy.
“We will continue to keep people informed and seek their views on key issues as we move forward.”
A report detailing the feedback from those who took part in the consultation and stakeholder events will be considered by members of the combined authority’s North East Leadership Board when they meet next Tuesday (June 16) at 2pm at Sunderland Civic Centre.
The report is available on the neca website www.northeastca.gov.uk