Leaders from across Sussex have held the first meeting of a new Partnership Board, a key step toward creating a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Sussex and Brighton.
The meeting focused on preparations for devolution, aimed at bringing decision-making closer to communities.
The move follows government approval for Sussex to join its Devolution Priority Programme.
Leader of West Sussex County Council, Cllr Paul Marshall, said: “Working together will provide us all with the opportunity to shape how the combined authority will bring benefits to the residents, communities and businesses of Sussex. It will give the area a voice at the centre of government for those issues will which help to bring further economic growth including on transport and infrastructure. I look forward to working with our partners in Brighton and Hove and East Sussex in delivering a new combined authority.”
Leader of East Sussex County Council, Cllr Keith Glazier, said: “This meeting was an important first step in the process of helping to shape the vision of the new Mayoral Combined County Authority, and ensuring it reflects the unique needs, challenges, and aspirations of our communities. It is great to see all three authorities working so closely with key local partners to make the most of this opportunity for Sussex and we look forward to continuing this partnership and working with residents and organisations to make devolution a success.”
Brighton & Hove City Council Leader, Cllr Bella Sankey, described the meeting as “an important milestone for Sussex & Brighton” adding that “devolution will bring influence and financial investment closer to local communities so we can decide how to create more jobs and affordable homes and deliver better integrated public transport.”
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