Devolution is a dull word. But it’s an exciting idea.
It’s about getting money, resources and power out of London and into the West of England. Because we all know our area better than civil servants based in Whitehall. And I’ve got complete confidence in the skills and wisdom of people across the West of England to come up with bespoke local ideas to improve transport, create more jobs, and protect our environment.
I became Mayor because I care about our area. It’s my home. I grew up here, and I know it’s an amazing place to live, work and study. As the Mayor of the West of England, my job is to deliver results. The new English Devolution Bill promises to help me (and all mayors) do that better by giving regional leaders better tools and resources to address our region’s unique challenges and opportunities – including with new strategic planning powers around major development.
The new Government recently explained how Mayors will be able to assist young people to get a good job, ensuring every 18- to 21-year-old in our region has access to education, training, or work. It’ll mean an end to a one size fits all approach across the UK and the start of a West of England focused plan.
Why does this matter? Because we’re home to Wallace and Gromit, Channel 4, and a thriving aerospace industry. So doesn’t it make sense to work on skilling up our young people in animation and creative and technical skills? And because I know our residents care about the planet, getting people ready for green jobs too.
The new bill promises even more powers over train services. In the past two years, we’ve opened two new train stations in the West of England. This could help us open more, and potentially have a say over ticket prices and timetables. And I know people really would like the trains to link up better with the buses!
Talking of buses, devolution so far allowed me to introduce Birthday Buses, giving every resident in the region a month’s free travel throughout their birthday month. It’s only in the West of England that people have enjoyed many happy returns and singles!
Devolution is a real thing and I was pleased when the Labour Government announced so early in the King’s Speech that it wants to widen and deepen devolution. Now the next steps are happening.
I like to think we’ve shown devolution can work and now this is the point where the keys can be handed over and we can take control.
What works in London doesn’t necessarily work in the West of England, just like what works for one person might not suit another. We’re different, with our own strengths and challenges, and we need the freedom to approach things our way.
But independence doesn’t mean going it alone. Values, support, and resources are shared when it’s needed.
Devolution will mean – regions like ours having the freedom to lead on local priorities, with the backing of a Government that trusts us to get the job done.
It’s about becoming the best version of ourselves. For the West of England, that means taking the lead on what matters most to us, while still being part of something bigger. If we get it right, it will mean a brighter future for everyone.