North East councils submit combined authority bid in Westminster

Representatives from the seven North East local authorities met with MPs in Westminster this week to make the case for a combined authority.

The North East Leadership Board submitted a formal bid to the Secretary of State for the Department of Communities and Local Government, to establish a Combined Authority by April 2014, and this is now moving to the next stage of the legislative process to gain parliamentary approval.

This briefing session with MPs and Lords is the first in a number of opportunities in the coming months to discuss progress, share views and to engage with the emerging Combined Authority and its partners through the parliamentary process.

Councillor Mick Henry, Chair of the North East Leadership Board, said: “It’s clear that, by working together, we will be able to maximise the opportunities for economic growth for the area. We will be focussing on skills, transport and economic growth – issues which are best addressed collectively. Not only will we be able to operate more effectively, but will deliver long-term prosperity for future generations.

“Having support from MPs and Lords is of vital importance in both shaping and championing our shared agenda for growth. We strongly believe that local determination and increased funding certainty will increase our capacity to help the economy to grow.”

“National, ‘one size fits all’ models often fail to address local challenges and opportunities. Developing a shared agenda for growth, working with the Local Enterprise Partnership and other partners, will ensure we are best placed to create more and better jobs for the future.”

Paul Woolston, Chair of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership said: “Paul Woolston, Chairman of the North East LEP said: “The formation of the combined authority offers a rare and valuable opportunity to boost the delivery of economic development across the North-East LEP area, and strengthen our ability to compete nationally and internationally for good jobs.

“Transport and skills development will also benefit from the cohesive voice of the combined authority, speaking as one on behalf of the region. The North East LEP’s strategic role will work well alongside the combined authority, bringing real results for businesses and people across the region. I look forward to the new body playing a leading role in the future.”

The North East Leadership Board represents Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland councils. The Combined Authority will work closely with other partners, including Tees Valley, to provide a shared strategic vision for the region and a clear agenda for growth; focusing on skills, transport and inward investment. The Combined Authority will not replace individual councils, who will continue to deliver the vast majority of its services to local communities.