Cabinet to consider devolution options

Cabinet will consider options for the possible devolution of powers and funding to Norfolk, when it meets on 4th December.

Last December, Norfolk County Council and the Government signed an in principle agreement to transfer key powers and funding to Norfolk - known as a level three county deal. This includes a £20 million per year investment fund, plus powers and funding for transport, brownfield regeneration and skills.

Following public consultation earlier this year and further negotiations with the Government, four options will be considered by the cabinet:

1. Proceeding with the current, in principle deal, which would see voting for a directly elected leader in May 2024 - a year ahead of the county council elections.
2. Proceeding with the current, in principle deal, but with voting taking place in May 2025, alongside the county council elections, after the Government agreed to allow this option to be considered.
3. Going back to Government and negotiating a level two deal, which would mean Norfolk wouldn't receive the £20 million per year investment fund and other funding and powers over transport and brownfield sites - but would have adult education funding devolved to the county
4. Deciding not to proceed with a devolution deal.

County council leader, Councillor Kay Mason Billig, said: "Over the last year, we have consulted the public and partners on the current deal and continued talks with the Government about potential further benefits.

"There are four clear choices. Cabinet will consider the potential benefits of each approach and then make a recommendation to full council."

Cabinet meets at 10am on Monday, 4th December, to discuss the report. Watch the meeting, live or afterwards, and read the report.

For an overview of the county deal, including an infographic and the full deal text, please see www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolkcountydeal.

Background - what would a county deal mean?

Norfolk faces a major opportunity to gain new powers and funding from the Government, through an agreement called the County Deal.

We could make more decisions in Norfolk, for Norfolk and secure investment of more than £600 million over 30 years. If councillors agree the in principle deal, it will enable us to invest in areas such as transport, skills and job opportunities, housing and regeneration, tailored to the needs of local people.

A County Deal would mean:

• Having a Council Leader who is directly elected by the public, enabling Norfolk's voice to be heard by the Government
• Targeting funding and resources to Norfolk's own priorities
• Unlocking housing and employment sites
• Investing in the skills we need and attracting and retaining key businesses
• Opening the door to more - further powers and funding in future