Politicians in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are set to discuss the next stage in their plans for greater independence.
The four local councils estimate devolution would free up funding worth £1.14 billion and have spent the past few months on detailed proposals.
Over the next few days their suggestions will be discussed and voted on by all four councils and – if approved – a full consultation will follow giving residents, businesses and other organisations the chance to comment.
If it goes ahead a devolution deal, with a regional mayor and combined authority created for the area, could come into play from 2024, with the mayor elected in May of that year.
In a joint statement the council leaders – Coun Barry Lewis, Coun Ben Bradley MP, Coun Chris Poulter and Coun David Mellen – said devolution was about getting a better deal for the area, more funding and the chance for more big decisions to be made locally rather than in London.
They said: “We don’t want to miss out on the advantages that devolution would bring, which other parts of the country have already benefited from. We’ve seen how devolution has given other areas more influence, a bigger presence, and helped them make the most of their strengths.
“We want to make the most of every opportunity, and of every penny, that this deal would bring in.
“It could make a real difference to people’s lives. More and better jobs, more investment, economic growth, better transport, housing, skills training, an improved greener and more sustainable environment.
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“These are the things we all want to see, as we work together for a better future for the East Midlands.
“We often haven’t had the same level of funding or influence as other areas, and this is a big chance to turn that around and help us live up to our potential as a region.”
What East Midlands devolution could mean:
A move towards Net Zero and cleaner air with new low carbon homes, retrofit existing houses with external wall insulation, promoting renewable energy and protecting green spaces,
Building on the region’s expertise in green technology and promoting a low carbon economy by investing in skills
More co-ordinated public transport
Working with Homes England to build more affordable homes, using powers to buy land and housing with district and borough council consent
Developing new commercial space
Working with government to address homelessness, domestic abuse, community safety, social mobility and support for young people
Take advantage of economies of scale by using combined and devolved budgets to deliver more value for taxpayers
If devolution goes ahead, a new type of combined authority would require legislation. As well as the £1.14 billion, it would bring in an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land and local control over a range of budgets such as adult education.
The devolution deal on the table is called a level 3 deal, which offers the most local powers and funding, and includes the new elected regional mayor.
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