Devolution

Devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from national to local government. It enables more decisions to be made locally, closer to the residents and businesses affected, helping regions shape their own future.

On 6 February 2025, the Government announced that Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth and Southampton City Councils and Isle of Wight Council had been successful in their joint bid for inclusion on the Government's fast-track Devolution Priority Programme (DPP).

Since that time the four authorities have been working closely together on plans to form a new Strategic Authority across the wider region, known as the Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority (HSCCA). Legislation to create this new Authority is currently progressing through Parliament.

Once established, the Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority will receive new powers and funding from central government. This will mean more decisions about key regional priorities are taken locally, including:

• transport and connectivity
• skills and employment support
• housing and strategic planning
• economic development
  energy
• public safety

A Mayor will be elected to head up the new Authority in 2028. The Mayor’s powers and funding will be devolved from central government departments and exercised in partnership with council Leaders from the newly created unitary authorities as confirmed by the national reorganisation of Local Government. The Mayor will also act as a strong advocate for the region, representing Hampshire and the Solent both nationally and internationally. Prior to 2028, the Authority will be led by a Board of representatives from the County, Isle of Wight, and City Councils, which will elect its own chair until the appointment of a Mayor. 

Local councils will continue to deliver day to day services for their communities.

To find out more about the creation of the new HSCCA and the benefits of devolution for Hampshire and the Solent, visit the new dedicated website. You can also follow the HSCCA on LinkedIn.

(Please note: Devolution is separate to Local Government Reorganisation which involves changes to the way locals councils are structured.)