New Forest District Council leader, Cllr Jill Cleary, responds to government’s decision to approve fast-track devolution

THE leader of New Forest District Council has pledged to do what she can for residents after the approval of fast-track devolution for Hampshire councils.

As reported in the A&T, the current two-tier local government system comprising NFDC and Hampshire County Council is set to be axed under devolution.

Hampshire and the Solent region will be part of the fast-track initiative, which includes establishing a new Strategic Mayoral Authority for Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Commenting on the decision, NFDC leader Cllr Jill Cleary said: “The transfer of enhanced decision making from central government and the ability to retain a greater share of more locally generated funding that comes through devolution is something that I welcome.

“I will now remain engaged in the process to oversee the establishment of the Mayoral Strategic Authority for our region.”

She added: “The government has also formally invited NFDC to work with other councils in Hampshire and the Solent to develop a proposal for Local Government Reorganisation.

“Whilst this is a less favourable direction of travel, we have to accept that it is in our best interest to also fully engage in this process and help shape an outcome as opposed to risk having something imposed upon us.

“It is expected that residents of the New Forest, and across broader Hampshire, will have an opportunity to feedback through a government-led consultation process.

“I will continue to make strong representations for an outcome that I believe is the best fit for the communities of the New Forest, whilst being mindful of the broader Hampshire geography.”