Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 22, 2025

Purpose: The Government has confirmed that it will proceed to establish a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Sussex – otherwise referred to as a Mayoral County Combined Authority from May 2026.  The Government will seek the consent of the County Council and the other upper tier councils in Sussex to the Statutory Instrument by which the Authority will be established by Parliament.  This will include the functions to be discharged by the new authority and how it will take decisions.

Content: Following consideration of the report the Cabinet resolved: (1)        To approve and consent to the establishment of the Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority; (2)        To delegate authority to the County Council’s Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, to agree the contents of, and consent to, the making of the Sussex and Brighton Combined Authority Order 2026; (3)        To delegate authority to the Chief Executive to take such action as necessary to give effect to the above resolutions and to facilitate the establishment of the Combined County Authority. The call-in deadline is 31 October 2025.