Hugely significant step forward for 'Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire'
Bold plans to secure a devolution deal for Lancashire have taken a hugely significant step forward after Lancashire's county councillors endorsed the proposals.
Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire sets out the areas where Lancashire's council leaders collectively believe more local powers over funding and decision-making could make the biggest difference. The themes identified are around the economy, transport, jobs, skills and the environment.
At a special meeting of Lancashire County Council on 24 January, county councillors scrutinised the plans before giving them their backing.
Lancashire County Council's leader, Councillor Phillippa Williamson, said: "Since June all of Lancashire's 15 council leaders have been working together on these plans which we believe will benefit every part of our county.
"This is collaboration on a scale that Lancashire has never seen before. It sends out the strong message that we are united and unwilling to be left behind.
"We have a clear and ambitious vision to secure additional powers, decision-making, and significant additional fundingwhich has the potential to transform our county and make a huge difference to the lives of all of our residents."
The council considered a joint report which has been prepared for all 15 councils, who will all scrutinise it in the coming weeks. If approved by all councils, the proposals will be taken forward to government.
Find out more about Our New Deal for a Greater Lancashire here https://lancashire.gov.uk/newdeal/
Read the joint report here https://council.lancashire.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=138&MId=12268