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Mersey local authorities co-operation plans progress

Proposals for Merseyside’s local authorities to work more closely together to secure jobs and investment have taken a step closer following a meeting of the Liverpool City Region Cabinet.

There was unanimous agreement between leaders of the local councils and Merseyside Integrated Transport Authority that the move towards a more formal joint body to make strategic decisions would help to improve both the local and national economy.

As part of a governance review, consultation on the preferred option of a Combined Authority took place.

This yielded 168 feedback responses from across the City Region with support for the proposals overwhelmingly positive - more than 80% in favour.

A Combined Authority would allow Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral councils, Merseytravel and the Local Enterprise Partnership to formalise their working relationship around strategic decions, and use this joint influence to draw-down powers and resources from Central Government for local use.

Supporters of the move argue this would improve the economy, create jobs and benefit all communities across the Liverpool City Region.

They say it would provide clear leadership and greater transparency, while creating a legal entity which would be in a position to attract funding and devolved powers from Government.

Finally, they claim it would increase efficiency in delivering transport and economic development to benefit residents.

Each local authority is expected to make decisions at their cabinet and council meetings and if all parties support the proposals, a formal submission will be made to government on 30 September.

Cllr Phil Davies, leader of Wirral Council, said: “Given the financial situation facing all Merseyside authorities it is more important than ever that we work together and become a stronger unit.

“This proposal will in no way mean us losing local powers, but will mean we are much better equipped to operate on the national stage and truly punch our weight when it comes to major issues such as transport, investment and jobs.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .