Government confirms creation of new Mayoral County Combined Authority for Hampshire and the Solent, marking significant milestone in local decision-making and investment for the region.
The Government has given the green light to establish a new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) for Hampshire and the Solent, representing a crucial step towards enhanced local governance and regional investment.
Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council, Hampshire County Council, and Isle of Wight Council are collaborating closely with Government officials to develop the legislative framework required to formally establish the new MCCA before the end of this year.
The new MCCA will deliver substantial additional funding and powers transferred from central government to the region, with priorities including economic growth, infrastructure development, transport improvements, and strategic planning.
This devolution initiative will enable local decision-making on transport, housing, skills development, and economic growth to be managed by representatives closer to the communities they serve, ensuring regional investment and policies better reflect local needs and priorities.
The announcement follows last week’s introduction of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill across England on Thursday 10 July, which aims to deliver public expectations by collaborating with communities rather than imposing decisions upon them.
Mayoral elections for the Hampshire and Solent MCCA are scheduled for May 2026.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, commented: “Devolution has the potential to benefit Portsmouth residents and businesses and the wider area and deliver extra regional powers and investment in jobs, infrastructure and services.
- Love Southsea Market arrives on Palmerston Road Saturday
- Pompey Sign Seven New Academy Scholars
- Pompey Women Sign Forward Angelina Nixon
“This announcement shows the Government recognises we’re ready to take on more responsibility for the things that matter to people living here. It’s important we now secure the powers that will have the impact we need for our area, so we will continue to work with partners to create a new strategic authority that delivers the best outcomes for residents.”
Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “Today’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for Southampton and our partner councils. It reflects our shared ambition and readiness to take on greater powers and deliver real benefits for our communities.
“My predecessor, Councillor Lorna Fielker, worked closely with the Leaders of Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Portsmouth to be placed on the Devolution Priority Programme. Building on the strong partnership working already in place across the region, this is a historic step forward for local democracy and regional growth — and we’re proud to be part of it.”
Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, stated: “This is a landmark moment for Hampshire and the wider region, with devolution offering a real opportunity to bring decision-making closer to the people and places it affects most. For our area, this is about unlocking new investment, driving economic growth, and delivering long-term benefits for our communities – giving residents a strong voice in shaping the future of our towns and neighbourhoods. We look forward to working closely with local partners, businesses, and community leaders to turn this opportunity into meaningful change on the ground.”
The devolution programme operates independently from the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation plans, which are progressing simultaneously and would replace existing councils with larger, unified councils serving populations of approximately 500,000 people.
