Devolution for Cheshire and Warrington

The Government have confirmed on Thursday 17 July that devolution for Cheshire and Warrington can progressto the next stage of pursuing a devolution agreement.

The government also confirmed that, subject to the consent of all three councils, Cheshire and Warrington can establish a Mayoral Combined Authority in 2026 and move the Mayoral election from May 2026 to May 2027.

Progressing a devolution deal
Earlier this year, Cheshire and Warrington, as one of six devolution priority areas, supported a government-led statutory consultation, asking local people about the potential benefits of devolution.

There were 1,663 responses from individuals and organisations across Cheshire and Warrington. The findings of the consultation helped inform the government about whether Cheshire and Warrington met the necessary statutory tests, demonstrating the area’s readiness to deliver a devolution programme.

Respondents in favour cited improvements to the local economy and saw potential for more decisions to be made locally by people who know the area. They anticipate improved public transport and services, and that devolution will build on established joint working across the area.

Some respondents raised concerns about whether devolution could deliver benefits to market towns and rural areas as well as larger towns and cities. Other concerns cited additional bureaucracy and costs.

Local leaders will continue to work with the government to deliver the best possible agreement for Cheshire and Warringtonand help people understand the benefits, processes, and governance arrangements of devolution.

Mayoral elections proposed for May 2027

Leaders of Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Warrington Borough Councilwrote to the government requesting a change to the election date.

This would align the election of a Mayor with local elections in Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester, reducing costs and potentially increasing voter turnout.

Leaders of the three councils said: “We’re pleased that the government has listened to our local residents, businesses and communities through the consultation, and has concluded that we can keep working on the best possible devolution agreement for our area.

“A devolution agreement would mean shifting additional powers and funding from government to Cheshire and Warrington – bringing more jobs, better transport and smarter investment to the area.

“Following the announcement, we can now work with certainty to unlock the huge benefits and opportunities of devolution. As we continue, it’s important we take on board and respond to the feedback received through the government consultation.

“We’re equally pleased that the government has agreed to defer Mayoral elections to May 2027. This gives us greater clarity on our plan to establish a Mayoral Combined Authority in 2026. It also means that if a Mayoral election takes place in May 2027, it will save money and could also result in more people voting and having their say.”

Following the government’s confirmation that Cheshire and Warrington has met the statutory tests, the decision to progress with establishing a Mayoral Combined Authority is now subject to formal decisions by the three councils in September 2025.

Further information about devolution for Cheshire and Warrington can be viewed at cheshireandwarringtondevolution.com