Council urges new Prime Minister to give Hertfordshire an elected mayor

In reference to Andy Burnham’s emphasis on devolution and promise to transfer powers away from Westminster the council is urging the head of Government to give the region a mayor with significant powers.

Hertfordshire is also in the process of undergoing a transformation into four new unitary authorities rather than the current set up which includes 11 borough and city councils.

Specifically, Mr Burnham confirmed that greater backing will be given to mayors across England. "Under our plans, more of the taxes raised in a community will stay in that community,” he said.

In the wake of the Labour Government’s announcement, Hertfordshire County Council leader, Councillor Steve Jarvis, said: "The Prime Minister’s focus on transferring powers out of Whitehall, renewed momentum behind devolution and commitment to increasing funding for mayors to invest in local priorities are all encouraging. It is now more important than ever for the government to deliver devolution for Hertfordshire, including a mayor, without further delay to ensure our county does not miss out and I look forward to further discussions taking place shortly about how this can be achieved.

“Hertfordshire is already one of the largest, most productive local economies in the country and there is consistent and unanimous agreement across Hertfordshire’s political and business leaders that mayoral devolution can unlock our full potential. We will continue to strongly make the case for moving quickly to a Strategic Authority for Hertfordshire and then a Mayor as soon as possible, so that all residents and businesses can benefit from greater inclusive growth and stronger public services.”