An expression of interest to create a new mayoral strategic authority for the Thames Valley has been submitted to government following agreement from thirteen councils, including Swindon Borough Council.
The proposal sets out plans for a mayoral strategic authority, which would be a combined authority led by a directly elected mayor and made up of councils from across the region.
If approved, the authority would seek new powers and funding to support more joined-up transport, infrastructure delivery and housing, with a particular focus on social housing.
The plans aim to support economic growth across the Thames Valley, while councils would continue to deliver day-to-day public services locally.
The expression of interest was debated by councils during meetings held in November and December before being formally submitted to government.
The letter was signed on behalf of the councils by Councillor Mary Temperton, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council and Chair of the Berkshire Prosperity Board, and Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said:
“This is a significant moment for Swindon as this path we are taking has the potential to unlock billions of pounds for the economies in the Thames Valley region and will put us on an extremely firm footing for the future.”
“We are making a really strong and compelling case to the Government and I am particularly proud of the role we have played in getting us to this point, having hosted our Thames Valley partners at the very first strategic devolution meeting at Lydiard House just over a year ago.”
“This partnership shows what can be done when political differences are put aside to pursue an opportunity that will benefit all our residents for many years to come. Our councillors in Swindon have come together as one to back this deal and it is great this has extended to the cross-border support from our Oxfordshire and Berkshire partners.”
“I am looking forward to continuing our conversations with the Government so we deliver more jobs, better transport infrastructure and good quality homes for all our residents across the Thames Valley region.”
Councillor Mary Temperton, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council and Chair of the Berkshire Prosperity Board, said:
“Signing the expression of interest is an important step forward in our local devolution journey and together we hope that this will provide a compelling case to government for sustained investment in the region. I am looking forward to continuing the productive discussions that have been taking place and developing our plans with government.”
“Our aim with the MSA is that it will help boost the local economy and improve services that are really important to our residents, like transport and housing as well as boost jobs. It will also be an opportunity for our area to take charge of big infrastructure projects which make a real difference to lives locally.”
Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said:
“We have a once in a generation chance to seize the opportunities that devolution offers. By coming together as a strategic authority, our councils can better coordinate resources and expertise to deliver the support our residents need.”
“Our collaboration will support innovative businesses, expanding access to skills training, affordable homes, and a modern, joined-up transport network – ensuring everyone benefits from new opportunities and an improved quality of life.”
“A Thames Valley MSA will harness the collective strengths of the region to unlock unparalleled prospects for inclusive and sustainable growth.”
The proposed authority is intended to speed up delivery of major projects, attract investment and strengthen the region’s economy.
Further discussions will now take place with government, with detailed proposals expected to be developed over the coming months before being considered by councils and partners.
The councils currently involved in discussions are:
Bracknell Forest Council
Cherwell District Council
Oxford City Council
Oxfordshire County Council
Reading Borough Council
Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
Slough Borough Council
South Oxfordshire District Council
Swindon Borough Council
Vale of White Horse District Council
West Berkshire Council
West Oxfordshire District Council
Wokingham Borough Council
