Devolution for Hampshire – have your say in the Government’s consultation

This follows the recent announcement by the Deputy Prime Minister that Hampshire County Council, Southampton and Portsmouth City Councils, and Isle of Wight Council have been accepted on Government’s Devolution Priority Programme.   
 
The consultation invites residents’ views on the proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Hampshire, Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, and Southampton.

The consultation runs for eight weeks from 10am, 17 February 2025 to 11:59pm on 13 April 2025.

It can be found here: Hampshire and the Solent devolution consultation - GOV.UK

Commenting, Leader of Hampshire County Council Leader, Councillor Nick Adams-King said: “Devolution represents the biggest change to local government in a generation and as such, it is really important that local people across the wider Hampshire area have the opportunity to comment on the proposals. 

“Collectively, alongside our three partners, joining the Government's Devolution Priority Programme is a fantastic opportunity for Hampshire to self-determine and shape devolution proposals in the best interests of our residents and communities.

“We are among a select group of local authorities nationwide to participate in this accelerated programme, underscoring the significant devolution opportunities the Government has identified for our region. Together with our upper-tier local authority partners, we have a combined population exceeding two million residents, 90,000 businesses, and an economy generating approximately £80 billion annually, Hampshire and the Solent region are crucial to the UK's economic framework.

"Devolution will shift more powers and flexibilities from Westminster to Hampshire and the Solent region, along with additional funding and investment. This transition will empower local authorities to make vital decisions closer to where residents live and work, driving economic growth, innovation, and productivity.

"This will enable us to create the best possible future for our citizens and businesses, improving people’s quality of life and spearheading the UK's economic recovery in the coming years through opportunities such as sustainable economic growth, reduced inequalities, and maximized net zero ambitions. 

“This is an exciting time for Hampshire and the Solent region, and we encourage everyone to have their say on this milestone opportunity for everyone in our region.”

Further dedicated information about devolution in Hampshire, including Q&As, can be found on the County Council’s webpages, www.hants.gov.uk/devolution.