The Council met on Thursday 9th January 2025 to discuss the English Devolution White Paper and the creation of Strategic Authorities, and to approve recommendations regarding the political balance on Council committees. The Council agreed to continue discussions on devolution and join the Devolution Priority Programme for the South Midlands, and also approved the revised allocation of seats on committees to reflect the current political balance of the Council.

English Devolution White Paper and the Creation of Strategic Authorities

The Council has agreed to continue discussions regarding the creation of a Strategic Authority for the South Midlands, following the publication of the English Devolution White Paper. This decision means North Northamptonshire Council will join the Devolution Priority Programme (DPP) as a Principal Local Authority. The DPP is a government initiative to accelerate devolution for areas ready to progress at pace.

The decision to join the DPP does not commit the Council to a specific form of Strategic Authority, such as a mayoral model, with formal decisions to be made later in 2025 after further consultation and development of specific proposals. The Council delegated authority to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Jason Smithers, to submit an Expression of Interest to the government and to progress negotiations.

During the debate, concerns were raised by Councillors Martin Griffiths, Ken Harrington, and John McGhee regarding a potential loss of localism and a lack of public support. Councillors Helen Harrison and Jonathan Ekins supported the recommendations, emphasising that this step was about exploration and consultation, not a final commitment. Councillor Jim Hakewill expressed concerns about transparency and insufficient engagement time. Councillor Valerie Anslow proposed an amendment for the inclusion of political group leaders in future discussions, which was subsequently withdrawn. Councillor Mark Pengelly raised concerns about other South Midlands authorities potentially not participating, and Councillor William Colquhoun noted a lack of input from opposition parties.

The Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Matt Keane, welcomed devolution as a means to facilitate growth and investment, but expressed concerns about the pace given the Council's recent formation. He offered support contingent on regular briefings for political group leaders. Councillor Scott Edwards reiterated that the report offered a seat at the table for further discussions and consultation.

The motion was voted on, with 48 councillors in favour, 5 abstaining, and 5 against. The Council resolved to welcome the White Paper, agree to join the DPP, delegate authority for submitting an Expression of Interest and progressing negotiations, and agreed that a further report would be considered in 2025 to enable a final decision on the creation of a Strategic Authority.

The English Devolution White Paper outlines a framework for combined authorities, referred to as 'Strategic Authorities', with three tiers: Established Mayoral Strategic Authorities, Mayoral Strategic Authorities, and Foundation Strategic Authorities. The White Paper details potential powers and funding in areas such as housing, regeneration, local transport, skills, and employment support. The DPP aims to establish Mayoral Strategic Authorities in time for May 2026 Mayoral elections, with government support and capacity funding.

Political Balance on Council Committees

The Council approved recommendations for the revised allocation of seats on Council committees to reflect the current political balance of the Council. This adjustment was necessary due to recent changes in group membership, including Councillor Ken Harrington moving from the Conservative Group to Reform UK, the disbanding of the Independent Alliance Group, and the cessation of membership for Councillors Ross Armour and Charlie Best.

The report detailed the updated political makeup of the Council, with the Conservative Group holding 53 members, the Labour Group 16, Green Alliance 3, Reform UK 2, and two unaligned independents, alongside two vacant seats. This resulted in a revised apportionment of seats on ordinary committees, ensuring proportionality in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989¹.

The decision ensures that the governance structure of the Council aligns with statutory proportionality requirements and the Council's Constitution. No alternative options were considered, as the revised political balance calculation is a statutory requirement. The motion to approve the recommendations was carried with 57 councillors in favour, and none against or abstaining.