NKDC executive board backs devolution deal for Lincolnshire

In March this year, councils in the Greater Lincolnshire area - including NKDC - signed a headline deal with the Government to have powers, resources and responsibilities devolved to the area.

In addition, the first deal includes a single pot of £450 million of investment funds - £15m per year for 30 years.

It has been made clear by the Government that a Mayoral Combined Authority would be needed to implement the deal.

All councils in Greater Lincolnshire are now considering detailed proposals to outline the governance structure and functions of a mayoral combined authority and asked to approve a public consultation due to begin in July.

NKDC’s Executive Board agreed this at its meeting on Thursday, May 12.

Coun Marion Brighton, Leader, said: “We tend to under estimate our lifestyle and the facilities we have in the county.

“We have great ambitions for the future which can be helped and achieved by securing devolved powers from the Government along with the investment proposed.

“In discussions so far the Government has been very impressed by the unity shown by the authorities involved, all of which have one vote each in the decisions being taken.”

Coun Mike Gallagher, Deputy Leader, said: “I can see this being nothing but good for the county and the rate payers in the district if we work together to achieve our goals.”

The public consultation will seek feedback on the proposals, and the results will accompany the governance proposals that will be submitted to the Secretary of State in late August.