The government has launched a public consultation on proposals to set up a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
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As reported earlier in the month, Southampton City Council (SCC) announced that the government had included the area in its Devolution Priority Programme, fast-tracking a Strategic Mayoral Authority set for May 2026.
SCC says of devolution and local government reorganisation: “This will be a big change for Southampton and will bring tens of millions of pounds of new investment as well as access to additional powers to improve for economic growth, skills, transport and collaboration across our region.”
Council leader Cllr Lorna Fielker said: “We’ve always been clear that local people need to have a meaningful role to play in the devolution process. Devolution brings huge opportunities for Southampton, and it’s really important that the city’s residents and businesses have their say. I’d encourage everyone to make sure they use this opportunity to help shape the proposed devolution arrangements for our region and ensure that they truly reflect the needs of Southampton.”
While the devolution agenda aims to improve local decision-making, boost economic growth, and deliver services more efficiently, some critics argue it fails to address the financial pressures on local government (Portsmouth News article), risks eroding local identities (Reform UK article), and may create governance complexities that blur accountability (Centre for Cities).
The government-run consultation on proposals for Mayoral Strategic Authorities is now open and will remain so until 11:59pm on Sunday, April 13 from this link.