Devolution in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent
In February, the Government asked councils in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to think about whether we wanted to take part in the next stage of devolution.
All ten councils in the area have now sent a joint response to Government confirming that we are interested and ready to have a Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA) for our area as soon as possible.
Read the full expression of interest below:
What is a Foundation Strategic Authority?
A Foundation Strategic Authority, or FSA, is a new type of local authority partnership offered by the Government.
It would give our area extra powers and funding which means that more decisions about things that affect you will be made locally.
These are additional powers that existing councils cannot access on their own.
What are the benefits for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent?
If we had an FSA, our area could:
- Get extra money to help grow jobs and businesses
- Make better decisions about buses and transport
- Have more control over training and skills, such as adult learning
- Help people with specialist employment needs
- Work with Homes England on new homes and regeneration
- Work more closely with Government on major projects, including rail
- Have a stronger say in the skills local employers need
Why does this matter?
These extra powers could help us:
- Bring in more jobs and investment
- Improve transport and travel
- Give people better chances to learn new skills
- Make decisions that suit our local area
What’s the difference between devolution and local government reorganisation?
- Devolution gives local areas more powers and money from Government.
- Local government reorganisation is about changing the number or structure of councils.
These are two separate processes, although they may happen at the same time.
Will anything change straight away?
No. Sending the expression of interest is only the first step. There will be no immediate changes to council services.
Will we get an elected Mayor?
Not at this stage. FSAs do not include a mayor. A mayor would only be needed if the area later moved to a Mayoral Strategic Authority, which would be a separate decision.
Does this mean councils will be merged?
No. Devolution and local government reorganisation are two separate processes.
Who decides if we get an FSA?
The Government will review our expression of interest and decide whether to start formal discussions.
How long will this take?
We don’t know yet. It depends on Government, but we are keen to do it as soon as possible and will share updates as the process continues.
Why are Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent doing this together?
The area has over one million residents, shared transport links, and a connected economy. Government has already recognised it as a strong and sensible geography for devolution
