The Council met on Thursday 9 January 2025 to discuss the English Devolution White Paper and the creation of Strategic Authorities, and to approve recommendations regarding political balance on council committees. The council agreed to continue discussions on the creation of a Strategic Authority for the South Midlands and to join the Devolution Priority Programme.

English Devolution White Paper and the Creation of Strategic Authorities

The Council welcomed the publication of the English Devolution White Paper and the government's intent to devolve powers. A key decision was made to continue discussions on the creation of a Strategic Authority for the South Midlands, with the council agreeing to join the Devolution Priority Programme as a Principal Local Authority. This move is intended to explore the potential opportunities, benefits, and risks associated with establishing such an authority.

The council delegated authority to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Jason Smithers, to submit an Expression of Interest to confirm North Northamptonshire Council's agreement to join the Devolution Priority Programme. Councillor Smithers, in consultation with Group Leaders, will also progress negotiations for the creation of a South Midlands Strategic Authority. A further report will be presented to the Council in 2025 to enable a final decision on the creation of the Strategic Authority, following extensive consultation and the development of specific proposals.

The report highlighted that the English Devolution White Paper outlines a framework for three types of Strategic Authorities: Established Mayoral Strategic Authorities, Mayoral Strategic Authorities, and Foundation Strategic Authorities. These authorities are expected to receive devolved powers and funding covering areas such as housing, regeneration, local growth, transport, skills, and employment support. The Devolution Priority Programme aims to accelerate the establishment of Mayoral Strategic Authorities, with the potential for a Mayor to be elected in May 2026.

The alternative to engaging with these proposals was considered, which would risk the Council losing opportunities to deliver better outcomes for residents and businesses, and potentially lead to government-mandated changes with less local influence. The report also noted that North Northamptonshire Council, being a large unitary authority with high growth, has not been indicated as being subject to local government reorganisation, a position confirmed in recent conversations.

The council's decision to engage with the devolution proposals aligns with its Corporate Plan 2021/25 and its commitment to the growth of the area. The report also detailed potential implications for resources, finance, legal and governance, and risks associated with the creation of a new Strategic Authority.

Political Balance on Council Committees

The Council approved recommendations regarding the political balance on council committees. This decision ensures that the revised political balance of the Council is applied to its governance structure, in accordance with statutory proportionality requirements and the Council's Constitution. The report stated that this was a necessary step following a revised political balance calculation, as required by the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Local Government (Committees and Political Groups) Regulations 1990. No alternative options were considered as this was a mandatory requirement.