Cheshire & Warrington Devolution

In December 2024, the government published a White Paper setting out its commitment to devolution across England. Devolution is about recognising that local leaders know their regions best and sets out how devolution would provide new powers and money to invest in the things that are important to our residents, communities and businesses. This has provided the foundation for more detailed conversations with government about the potential new powers and funding our region could receive. Devolution would give the Cheshire & Warrington area greater control over governance and resources. A new Combined Authority will be made up of representatives from the three councils and it will be chaired by an elected Mayor. It will further increase collaboration between councils over issues like transport or housing, that require joined-up planning across council boundaries.

A new Combined Authority would be able to make decisions and investments that benefit people living and working in Cheshire and Warrington.

Cheshire & Warrington is part of the government's Devolution Priority Programme (DPP) and will work towards setting up a new Combined Authority, with a Mayor to be elected in May 2026. Before any decisions are made, views will be sought from residents, communities and businesses on how devolution could benefit Cheshire and Warrington. The government has undertaken a consultation on devolution, which ended on 13 April 2025, and we are awaiting the outcome.

A local engagement programme will be taking place over the coming months, giving residents, communities and businesses more opportunities to share their views and learn more about the benefits of devolution. Please share your thoughts on devolution with us!