Greater Lincolnshire is set to benefit from £720m in new investment and game-changing powers, after councillors at North Lincolnshire Council backed a landmark devolution deal.
With North Lincolnshire Council approving the deal at a full council meeting today (Friday, 15 March 2024), a recommendation can now be put forward to Government requesting statutory legislation be put in place.
It comes after Lincolnshire County Council and North East Lincolnshire Council also voted in favour of the deal in Full Council meetings earlier this week.
Devolution will unleash Lincolnshire’s potential for generations to come, bringing thousands of high-paid, high-skill jobs, creating a green future built around net zero and driving forward a transport revolution.
Thousands of residents across the length and breadth of Lincolnshire backed the plans during an eight-week consultation.
The majority of respondents agreed with the proposals in the five central pillars of the deal:
- Jobs and business growth
- Education and training
- Road, buses and transport
- Homes and communities
- Environment
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This devolution deal will have a game-changing impact, changing the fortunes of a generation of young people across Lincolnshire.
“We are absolutely determined our children will have the best opportunities in life, to live in a Lincolnshire with well-paid jobs, a Lincolnshire where they can own their own home, a better connected Lincolnshire powered by clean energy and net zero industries.
“Devolution will deliver the investment and powers to make this vision a reality – it is a monumental opportunity.”
Lincolnshire County Council backed the deal on Wednesday 13 March, with North East Lincolnshire Council doing so the following day.
Cllr Martin Hill, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “All three councils see this as a great opportunity to be the masters of our own destiny and not be left behind when it comes to government investment.”
Cllr Phillip Jackson, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, added: ““A devolution deal will mean more funding for our area and extra powers from Westminster, and it’s important that this sits at a local level, with local decision-makers.
“It’s a historic day and will mean a great deal for Lincolnshire and the Humber region.”
The Secretary of State will now consider the final proposal, and if approved, will instigate secondary legislation.
From there, a new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority would be formed, subject to the approval of the three upper tier councils. The first election for a regional mayor could take place as early as May 2025.
Pictured from left to right: Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Phillip Jackson, leader, North East Lincolnshire Council, and Cllr Martin Hill, leader, Lincolnshire County Council, holding the Lincolnshire flag in Scunthorpe
