The government has confirmed the final legal step needed to establish the Sussex & Brighton Combined County Authority.
Ministers say the move will unlock new powers and funding for the area, even though mayoral elections won’t take place until 2028.
Ministers remain committed to transferring significant powers and funding to the Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority, including:
- A long-term investment fund totalling £1.14 billion, providing sustained long-term funding for locally agreed priorities.
- £30.4 million released over the next two years before mayoral elections, enabling early investment in programmes that matter most to Sussex residents and businesses.
- £9.0 million in capacity funding over four years to support the establishment and operation of the new authority.
Council leaders welcomed the progress with Cllr Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, commenting: “This is an historic moment for Sussex & Brighton with devolution very much on track. Over the past year we’ve strengthened our relationship with government, and successfully leveraged more money and new powers into our region. This important next step will help deliver real benefits for our city and the wider region.”
Cllr Paul Marshall, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “This is an important next step in bringing further powers to the region which will provide strategic planning and funding for key areas such as transport and infrastructure, as well as a voice at national level. This milestone has been achieved through close partnership working and we continue these relationships to ensure the new combined county authority will delivery for our residents and the region.”
Cllr Keith Glazier, Leader of East Sussex County Council, added: “We’re now nearing the start of the new authority which we’re all determined will further power up Sussex for the benefit of everyone who lives and works here. This will mean more investment and opportunity and give us an even stronger voice together.”
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