Minister signs devolution deal for Cheshire and Warrington that gives access to a £650m investment fund as the region follows the lead of Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester. Tony McDonough reports
Cheshire and Warrington will have access to a new £650m investment fund as a part of its new devolution deal.
Taking the lead from the devolved authorities of Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester, the region has taken greater control over spending on transport, skills and investment.
A Parliamentary Order to formally establish the new Combined Authority has been approved and signed by Minister for Devolution, Miatta Fahnbulleh. It means the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority.
Work will continue to prepare for the election of the region’s first mayor in May 2027. The Mayor and Combined Authority. Having a Mayor means Cheshire and Warrington will “have a seat at the table” on key northern, national and international platforms.
Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Today is a landmark moment for Cheshire and Warrington, marking the transfer of powers from Westminster to our region.
“It’s a vital step on our devolution journey, establishing a Combined Authority before people can elect a Mayor in May 2027.
“The economy of Cheshire and Warrington is strong, and by making the most of what devolution offers, we can build on this platform.
“By having a Mayor, we can work alongside our neighbours in Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region to unlock investment, jobs and opportunity for local people and businesses, and play a stronger role in creating prosperity across our region.”
Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority will hold its inaugural meeting in April 2026. Its board will be made up of the leaders and deputy leaders of Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Warrington Council.
This announcement follows news in January that the Combined Authority has appointed former chief executive of Homes England, Nick Walkley as its interim chief executive.
The Combined Authority Shadow Board has been working since October 2025 to establish the robust foundations needed for successful devolution, including approval of the region’s 20-year sustainable and inclusive economic strategy.
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Cllr Hans Mundry, leader of Warrington Council, said: “In Warrington, we can see the transformative effect of investment and better public transport on a town’s outlook and opportunity.
“By increasing access to good quality jobs and improving skills, we have been able to develop one of the fastest growing local economies in the country. I am excited to see how devolution will help us to go further and faster.”