All 10 councils have submitted an expression of interest to government for a Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA), agreeing that Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent is the right geography for local devolution and that they are ready to move forward at pace, urging the government to implement the changes at the earliest possible opportunity.
Councillor Martin Murray, Chair of the Staffordshire Leaders Board, said:
We welcome Government’s interest in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent as a candidate for devolution. We are seeing areas without devolved powers lose out to those who have, so securing an FSA as soon as possible is essential if we are to unlock greater investment and opportunities for our communities. It will also give us a formal seat at the table and a stronger national voice on the issues that matter most."
Councillor Jane Ashworth, Vice Chair of the Board, added:
We first expressed our interest in devolution over 18 months ago, and this is a natural first step for our area. We stand ready and united in our desire to move forward at pace.”
Government has already recognised Staffordshire and Stoke‑on‑Trent as a strong and sensible geography for devolution, with over one million residents, shared infrastructure and an interconnected economy.
An FSA is the first tier of the government’s new devolution model. It would give the area greater control over transport, skills, employment support, planning and development, and create stronger partnerships with government on major projects. It is also an important stepping stone towards the greater powers available to Mayoral Strategic Authorities.
The submission of interest is the first step towards securing devolution for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. Government will now consider the submission.
