Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: April 1, 2025

Purpose: To consider the Council’s response to the Government consultation regarding devolution proposals for Hampshire and the Solent.   Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton Councils applied to join the Devolution Priority Programme to establish a Mayoral Combined County Authority across these areas.  On 5 February 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) confirmed Hampshire and the Solent was one of six regions across England that has been accepted onto the programme.   A public consultation on the establishment of a Mayoral Combined County Authority in the area is the first key step of the Devolution Priority Programme; the consultation is led by the MHCLG and is required before taking a decision on whether to proceed with the making of the necessary legislation to enable devolution.  It seeks views on the Proposed Geography, Governance Arrangements, Supporting the Economy, Improving Social Outcomes, Local Government Services, Improving the local natural environment,  and Supporting the needs of the local communities and reflect local identity.   The eight-week consultation, launched on 17 February 2025, seeks views from interested, including those who live and work in the area, on a proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) for the local government areas in Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Isle of Wight Council and Southampton City Council.   As a non-constituent body, Fareham Borough Council does not have a direct role in the creation of the MCCA, but nonetheless recognises the significant potential that the devolution arrangements could have for the borough.   Consequently, it is appropriate for the Council to submit a consultation response to the Government in order to shape the development of the MCCA with a view to achieving the best outcomes for Fareham and the County as a whole.   The draft response is attached as Appendix A to the report and reflects the Council’s position that devolution is broadly and widely supported.  There are, however, aspects of the proposals where the Council believes that Governance and local representation could be strengthened, and this is reflected in the draft response.

Content: RESOLVED that the Executive agrees   (a)  the draft response, as attached at Appendix A to the report; and   (b)  to delegate authority to the Chief Executive Officer, following consultation with the Executive Leader, to make any amendments required prior to submission by the close of the consultation period.