Devolution aim welcomed as positive step forward for Hertfordshire
A significant opportunity to unlock growth, investment and opportunity for communities across Hertfordshire.
That’s the verdict following the Government’s announcement, as part of the Budget, that they are at the final stages of agreeing a Mayoral Strategic Authority for the county.
Hertfordshire has long made the case for greater devolution, with leaders and partners across the county sharing an ambition to bring more powers, resources and decision making closer to local communities.
Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council and Chair of the Hertfordshire Growth Board, said: “This is positive development for Hertfordshire, and an important step towards unlocking the county’s full potential. We are ready to work with Government and our partners to finalise the agreement of a Mayoral Strategic Authority as soon as possible so that the residents and businesses Hertfordshire can start to benefit.
“Hertfordshire is already a place of national importance, with an economy of over £50 billion and world leading strengths in life sciences, film and creative industries, defence, advanced engineering, space, clean growth and digital innovation.
“Devolution gives us the opportunity to build on those strengths by bringing greater powers and investment closer to Hertfordshire and giving us a stronger voice nationally. With their powers, investment fund and democratic mandate, a mayor can provide both the convening influence and strategic leadership needed to join up decisions on growth, infrastructure, transport, housing and skills and turn our ambitions into delivery.
“Importantly, this ambition is shared across Hertfordshire with the County Council and Hertfordshire Growth Board working alongside local government, business, health and other partners to make the case for devolution and for the opportunities it can bring.
“Our ambition is for good, inclusive growth that benefits every part of Hertfordshire. We want to create new opportunities for all our residents and businesses thrive and ensure that prosperity reaches communities that have not always shared equally in Hertfordshire’s success.”
Find out more about the council’s key priorities and commitments to residents on its website .