Council leader meeting ministers over devolution

A council leader has said he is meeting government ministers today to ask "difficult questions" about what a devolution deal could mean.

On Monday, Central Bedfordshire councillors voted unanimously to explore forming a new South Midlands strategic authority with five other councils.

But leader Adam Zerny, an independent, told the BBC: "We are still in a position where we do not know the full financial implications and we do not know the benefits for our residents, or areas where we may need further protections."

A government white paper published last month required a statement of interest from councils by January 10 if they wish to be part of a Devolution Priority Programme.

A combined authority enables two or more existing councils to work together and make decisions across normal boundaries.

Powers and resources would be devolved to them from national government, and it could mean more money for transport and housing.

The government proposals also include more elected mayors.

There are already ten combined authorities across England, including one for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, which has worked with partners and stakeholders to open a new university.

Central Bedfordshire is one of six councils considering setting up a combined authority along with West Northamptonshire, North Northamptonshire, Bedford Borough, Luton and Milton Keynes City Council.

Zerny said: "I think we are ready to say we are interested in this priority program that the Government are offering, but we want to understand exactly what it brings."

He added that "we want to be inside the tent and understand what possible benefits there are, but we also have a word of caution, which is that we need to know whether there will be any negatives for our residents".

Councillors in each authority would have to vote for a formal devolution bid to be made.

A devolution application would then go to central government and a public consultation would be held.

The two Northamptonshire authorities are due to meet on Thursday to discuss it.

Luton Council has said it is "looking at all options" but "the best interests of the residents of Luton will remain our priority".

It said no meeting had yet been organised to discuss the issue.

Bedford Borough Council also told the BBC that are no current plans for a special meeting.

The BBC has also contacted Milton Keynes City Council.

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