After securing a devolution deal earlier this year Cheshire’s three local authorities agree deal with Government to delay its first mayoral election by one year. Tony McDonough reports
Cheshire’s three local authorities have agreed a deal with the Government to delay the start of devolution until May 2027.
Cheshire East, Cheshire West & Chester, and Warringtonl agreed a devolution deal with Whitehall in February to introduce an elected mayor, similar to Liverpool City Region and Greater Manchester.
It was originally planned the first mayor would be elected in May 2026. However, the three local authorities now say they want to hold the election a year later in May 2027, aligning with local elections taking place across Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester.
In a joint statement Cheshire West leader Cllr Louise Gittens, leader and deputy leader of Cheshire East, Cllr Nick Mannion and Cllr Michael Gorman, and Warrington leader Cllr Hans Mundry say they need more time to “put the right foundations in place”.
“We are committed to making devolution happen for Cheshire and Warrington,” they said in the statement.
“From initial conversations we’ve had with our communities and stakeholders, people are generally supportive of our plans and the benefits devolution will bring to our area.
READ MORE: Key HyNet hydrogen player reports falling revenues
“A devolution agreement for Cheshire and Warrington would mean additional powers and funding being drawn down from Government – bringing more jobs, better transport and smarter investment to the area.
“It means more decisions about the things that really matter to people are made closer to home by people who know the area best, and significant long-term funding that is in local control.”
They added: “We have heard what people have said and recognise that by holding the Mayoral election in May 2027 – at the same time as a number of local elections taking place across the area – we can reduce costs and potentially increase the number of people who will turn out to vote and have their voice heard.
“Establishing a Mayoral Combined Authority is subject to the outcome of the government’s statutory tests. It is also subject to formal decisions across the three councils, which are expected in September 2025.”
Cheshire actually comprises four local authority areas but Halton is already part of Liverpool City Region Combined authority along with Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, Knowsley and St Helens.