Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: December 15, 2025

Purpose: To seek Cabinet's support for Breckland's approach to Devolution

Content: RESOLVED that:   1)    Cabinet supports a positive vision for devolution, as set out in the enclosed Executive Policy Statement (Appendix 1) of this report, and agrees to work with local partners, including the Norfolk and Suffolk Combined County Authority (NSCCA) a future Mayor, and national partners to encourage a more ambitious, long-term aspiration for devolution in the region.   2)    Cabinet endorses the draft Investment Prospectus, as set out in Appendix 2, and delegates to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, the consultation and finalisation of a Prospectus. To be shared and promoted to the NSCCA alongside any future Mayoral candidates and the Mayor once elected.  

Reasons for the decision: Endorsing a longer-term, more ambitious vision for Devolution in Norfolk and Suffolk will ensure that the discussion as to how the NSCAA moves onto an ‘Established’ status begins early, and that Breckland shares its vision as to what a deeper more meaningful form of Devolution looks like.   Access to the investment funds that accompanies Devolution presents Breckland with opportunities to support important local priorities. Ensuring that awareness is raised of the opportunities within Breckland will aid future applications.  

Alternative options considered: Option 1 (Recommended) – To Agree to the recommendations:   1)    That Cabinet supports a positive vision for devolution, as set out in the enclosed Executive Policy Statement (Appendix 1) of this report, and agrees to work with local partners, including the Norfolk and Suffolk Combined County Authority (NSCCA) a future Mayor, and national partners to encourage a more ambitious, long-term aspiration for devolution in the region.   2)    That Cabinet endorses the draft Investment Prospectus, as set out in Appendix 2, and delegates to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, the consultation and finalisation of a Prospectus to be shared, aiding Breckland’s engagement with the NSCCA on support for these schemes.   Option 2 – Do nothing.