The government is inviting feedback on proposals to set up a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Hampshire and the Solent.
This follows on from the English Devolution White Paper published by the government in December 2024. The local council leaders from Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Isle of Wight Council, and Southampton City Council have since written to government expressing their interest in taking forward devolution within their area through the establishment of a Mayoral Combined County Authority, with the first election for a Mayor taking place in May 2026.
This consultation seeks views from residents living and working across Hampshire and the Solent and the effect of establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority in the area. It includes questions on the proposed geography and how the Combined County Authority will make decisions, together with questions on the effects of working across this geography through a Mayoral Combined County Authority.