Leaders from across the Thames Valley, including West Berkshire, are progressing plans to pursue a mayoral strategic authority (MSA) for the region.
Leaders from across the Thames Valley, including West Berkshire, are working towards establishing a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) for the region.
This would create a combined authority led by a directly elected mayor, aiming to harness new powers and funding to benefit local communities.
Jeff Brooks, leader of West Berkshire Council, remarked on the potential gains from this devolution programme, stating it would help improve roads, transport, and affordable housing, ultimately enhancing life for families and businesses.
Through an expression of interest to the government, council leaders aim to secure these powers and funding to facilitate integrated transport, infrastructure, and social housing, spurring faster growth.
If approved, this devolution could unlock £18.7 billion for the Thames Valley economy by 2040 and create an annual £7 billion tax revenue boost.
Mary Temperton, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, indicated that plans are in place to submit an expression of interest by year's end to enhance local economy and services.
Reading Borough Council leader Liz Terry supported the idea, highlighting that devolution promises significant benefits for residents by delivering essential infrastructure and housing.
Simon Werner from the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead stressed the importance of accessing additional powers and investments to enhance local housing, transport, and support businesses.
Slough Borough Council leader Dexter Smith believes this initiative will boost local growth, focusing on essential projects like infrastructure improvements for power supply and transport links.
Wokingham Borough Council leader Stephen Conway emphasised that an MSA would allow for local decision-making and greater collaboration among councils to address regional challenges.
Discussions have included local authorities from Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Swindon, with no decisions yet made. Following discussions, detailed proposals will be developed in the coming months.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
