The Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority Executive Board met on Friday 25 September 2026 to discuss a range of significant items, including the Local Transport Delivery Plan, the pursuit of Established Mayoral Strategic Authority status, and the recruitment of a new Chief Executive. The meeting also covered the appointment of a Deputy Mayor and the progress of the Combined Authority itself.

Local Transport Delivery Plan (LTDP)

A key item on the agenda was the proposed Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority: Local Transport Delivery Plan 2026-2030. This plan outlines how the authority intends to prioritise, allocate, and monitor transport funding to achieve local and national transport outcomes. It establishes a strategic investment framework for the period 2026/27 to 2029/30, with an approximate allocation of £289 million for various transport initiatives. These include highways maintenance, road improvements, public transport, active travel, and digital innovation. The plan is intended to be submitted to the Department for Transport by 31st October 2026.

Progress of the Combined Authority: Established Mayoral Strategic Authority (EMSA) Status

The Board was scheduled to consider the Combined Authority's pursuit of designation as an Established Mayoral Strategic Authority (EMSA). This status represents the highest tier of devolution and would enable HEYCA to access a multi-year Integrated Settlement, greater funding flexibility, and a formal mechanism to request further powers from the government. The report highlighted that HEYCA becomes eligible to apply on 6 November 2026 and outlined the programme and resources needed to submit a proposal at the earliest practicable opportunity. The designation criteria include having a directly elected Mayor, a proven record of effective governance and leadership, exemplary financial management, and robust assurance arrangements.

Appointment of Senior Post: Chief Executive

The recruitment of a new Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service for HEYCA was a significant agenda item, following the retirement of Alan Menzies. The report detailed a proposed multi-stage recruitment process, including technical interviews, an assessment centre with psychometric testing, a stakeholder panel, and a formal interview with the Employment Panel. The use of specialist recruitment consultants was also recommended to manage the campaign, which aimed to attract high-calibre candidates from both public and commercial sectors. The proposed salary range was benchmarked against comparable roles, with analysis suggesting the current range might be below market expectations.

Appointment of Deputy Mayor

The Board was set to discuss and propose amendments to the role of the Deputy Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority (HEYCA) as currently set out in its Constitution. The aim was to clarify and confirm the remit of the Deputy Mayor to ensure compliance with the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 and the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority Order 2025. This clarification is intended to inform potential appointees and ensure the efficient operation of the authority.

Appointing to a Vacant Post on the HEYCA Executive Board

The Executive Board was scheduled to consider the appointment of Councillor Jonathan Owen, Deputy Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, to a vacant seat on the HEYCA Executive Board. This appointment is intended to ensure adequate representation for East Riding of Yorkshire Council and maintain the full membership of the Board in line with the Authority's Constitution.

Other Scheduled Discussions

The meeting also included an update from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, chaired by Councillor Richard Meredith. Other items on the agenda included the consideration of concessionary fares, the Strategic Place Partnership, HEYCA office accommodation, and an investment decision. The agenda also noted a session for public questions and the exclusion of the press and public for specific items.