East Midlands council leaders consider options for new devolved powers and resources

The leaders of Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council, Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council have released a joint statement about options for devolution.

It follows the publication of the government’s Levelling Up White Paper in which they invited local leaders who want to, to put forward a vision for improved services, which, if approved, could lead to more powers and more funding from Westminster, to improve services and the lives of communities and residents.

The joint statement said: “It is clear the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper offers real opportunities for much needed investment in our region. We were pleased to be named in the White Paper as Cities and Counties which are ready for devolution of essential powers and resources, to help level up our places and economies.

“It is important we consider all options and garner wide support. We have met to consider the options available to us, and there have been initial discussions between senior council officers and Government officials. It is too early to say where these discussions will lead.

“We have made it clear that we are open to joint working, because we can see how collaboration between us and with our partners could bring significant benefits to local people. It is clear that the East Midlands has not had its fair share of government funding for a number of years, so it is important that we explore every avenue to address this issue.”

• Ben Bradley MP, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council and Chairman of the City of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Economic Prosperity Committee (EPC)
• David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council
• Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council
• Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council