The emerging combined authority (CA) agenda seems to be dominating the local government landscape. The deals struck, or in the process of being agreed, are preoccupying officers and members alike. The implications are far reaching, primarily in terms of the powers devolved to the newly formed CAs, which could mean that control over areas such as transport, economic development, skills and even health policy and spending is now held at sub regional level. The changes are exciting and very promising, although fears remain. One of the main concerns is about the governance arrangements, which in many cases are still indistinct. There is much talk over elected Mayors, who would be directly elected by the CA electorate and manage the devolved powers and their associated budgets. The introduction of elected Mayors is not something that local government politicians or officers are rushing to embrace - politicians in particular fear a dilution of their powers. But it seems to be the only show in town and perhaps understandably is a major negotiating tool for the Treasury. Want more devolved powers? Well, in that case we (the Treasury) want one person who is accountable (to the Treasury and to the electorate) and in charge, rather than having to deal with the numerous individual local authorities.
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