Norfolk County Council Renews £1.1 Billion Devolution Deal Consent

Norfolk County Council formally renewed its consent for a £1.1 billion devolution deal aimed at establishing a Norfolk and Suffolk Mayoral Strategic Authority. The proposed body would grant the region increased control over transport, housing, skills, and economic growth, supported by a long-term investment fund that includes £37.4 million in annual funding.

The renewal follows changes to the national devolution framework and the government's mayoral election timetable. Robin Hunter-Clarke, the council's deputy leader, stated that the move offers an opportunity to bring more power and investment closer to local communities.

While Norfolk has signed off on the plans, the deal remains pending a decision from Suffolk County Council. Suffolk leader Michael Hadwen has postponed the council's vote until November 12, seeking guarantees that Suffolk will maintain spending parity and equal partnership in the distribution of mayoral and deputy mayoral roles. The first mayoral election for the new authority is currently scheduled for May 2028, although some proponents have suggested moving the date to 2027.