Wiltshire Council councillors have reluctantly supported a proposal for the Leader of the Council to write to the Government, requesting the inclusion of the Heart of Wessex in the Devolution Priority Programme. This comes despite reservations about whether a mayor is suitable for a rural area.
At an extraordinary full council meeting held on Thursday, January 9, members discussed the potential benefits of devolution for Wiltshire and the broader Heart of Wessex area. The formation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority could unlock substantial funding and investment, fostering economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing local services. The council agreed that Cllr Richard Clewer (Leader of Wiltshire Council), alongside Leaders from Dorset and Somerset Councils, would write to the Government seeking inclusion in the programme.
Cllr Richard Clewer stated: "It is clear from the Devolution White Paper that all of England is going to end up in Strategic Authorities with mayors at their head. Whilst I am still not convinced of the need for a mayor in a rural area, Government has made it clear that if strategic authorities are going to maximise the funding opportunities available, devolution deals will require a mayor. We can either look now to create a Mayoral Strategic Authority in a geographical footprint that works for Wiltshire, which I believe the Heart of Wessex does, or wait and be forced into an authority in a few years that may not suit our needs."
Councillors emphasised the importance of fully considering the implications of joining the Devolution Priority Programme before making a commitment.
Cllr Clewer added: "It was crucial that all councillors were able to fully consider the implications of joining the Devolution Priority Programme before committing to writing to the Government. I was keen for all members to have the opportunity engage in this discussion as we seek to secure the best outcomes for our communities. Despite raising concerns about the mayoral model, members agreed that the Heart of Wessex presents the best opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors and we will continue to work with partner councils to progress proposals."
If the Heart of Wessex gains inclusion in the Devolution Priority Programme, it could lead to the creation of a mayoral strategic authority and the election of a regional mayor in May 2026. However, this initiative is not a merger of the three councils; each will maintain its independence and continue serving its communities as separate authorities.