Compelling economic case for One Yorkshire devolution presented to government

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY WEST YORKSHIRE COMBINED AUTHORITY ON BEHALF OF ONE YORKSHIRE

Yorkshire council leaders have asked the government to work with them to deliver a One Yorkshire devolution deal which could deliver a £30bn-a-year boost to the region and the UK.

The findings of a new independent study confirm there is a coherent Yorkshire economy and that a devolution deal for the region could unlock benefits worth up to £5,400 per person.

The independent study’s findings are included in a new submission to Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary James Brokenshire setting out the compelling case for a One Yorkshire devolution deal with a One Yorkshire Mayor elected in 2020.

The study finds there is “strong evidence” that Yorkshire is a coherent economic area and business supports devolution at a regional level.

The research identifies areas where Yorkshire-level devolution could make a significant impact including transport, exports, inward investment and higher level skills.

Preservation of the Yorkshire brand and identity emerges as a key finding with business considering it an important asset in national and international markets and 75% of people within the region identifying with Yorkshire.​

The study highlights how historic approaches to local transport may be hindering commuting between different parts of the region and limits the full potential of the strategic assets in the region such as our international ports.

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leader of Bradford Council, said:

“In West Yorkshire, we are already making huge progress through the delivery of our £1bn Growth Deal, but to go further and faster in delivering for all our communities we need to take this next step towards devolution.”

"The submission, supported by an independent economic study, shows that by using devolved powers and money to address the challenges we face as a region we could add up £30bn a year in output, equivalent to £5,400 per person, and I hope we can work constructively with the government to deliver this exciting vision."

Councillor Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council and Member of the Combined Authority, said:

“We are presenting a compelling case to the government to work with us to deliver an ambitious devolution deal unlocking significant benefits for our communities and the UK.

“These are ground-up proposals, supported by a clear economic case and which can be taken forward in parallel with the Sheffield City Region deal and therefore meet all the criteria the government has set.”

Read more about One Yorkshire devolution here or www.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/economy/devolution/

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