Devolution in Norfolk and Suffolk

In December 2024, the Government published the English Devolution White Paper.

Devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from the national government to local government. This means that local authorities can make decisions closer to the communities they serve. This will see the creation of strategic authorities who will have an elected mayor. They will handle key areas at a strategic level like transport, housing, economic development and more.

Norfolk and Suffolk were invited to apply to become a Combined County Authority. The new Combined County Authority will not replace local councils, instead, it will sit between them and the national government, coordinating efforts and managing strategic functions.

Devolution will bring a stronger local voice in national matters and greater levels of investment. The new Mayor will have a seat around the table at the Council of Nations and Regions, ensuring Norfolk and Suffolk are represented at the highest level.