Yorkshire mayors unite with ‘historic’ agreement

A new agreement is set to bring together Yorkshire's metro mayors to focus on shared priorities.

South Yorkshire mayor Oliver Coppard, West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin and York and North Yorkshire mayor David Skaith have signed the White Rose Agreement at Selby Abbey, marking a commitment to collaborate and “champion Yorkshire” at national and international levels. 

The agreement focuses on five key areas, including improving rail and bus connectivity, driving investment and tackling crime, as the three mayors, who represent a combined population of 4.5 million, aim to “harness the powers of devolution” to create meaningful change for communities across Yorkshire.

Mayor Coppard said: “We’re more than lucky to be able to call God’s Own Country our home. 

“Not just because of our past but because of our future. 

“And as the three mayors who represent our region, we’re determined to build that future together: to build on the huge opportunities in front of us, and to be tackling our long-standing challenges.”   

Mayor Skaith added: “Yorkshire is a place that’s beloved by the people in it, and as a globally recognised brand. 

“We want to share the unique strengths we each bring to the table, to ensure that we’re championing the region as a great place to live, work, visit and invest.” 

As part of the initiative, Lord David Blunkett, former Home Secretary under Tony Blair, will lead a review into rail connectivity across the region, with the findings to be submitted to the Government.

Lord Blunkett added: “Decent transport connections are key to economic growth and a society where opportunities are spread across the country. 

“The White Rose Agreement is a historic day for Yorkshire and a foundation on which we can build.”

The agreement also paves the way for potential collaboration with the future mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire, ahead of the May 1 election.

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