One Yorkshire devolution deal to deliver £30bn-a-year, according to new study
A One Yorkshire devolution deal could deliver a £30bn-a-year boost to the UK, according to a new independent study.
The independent study also claimed that a devolution deal for the region could unlock benefits worth up to £5,400 per person.
These findings are included in a new submission to Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary James Brokenshire setting out the case for a One Yorkshire devolution deal with a One Yorkshire Mayor elected in 2020.
The study said there is “strong evidence” to suggest that Yorkshire is a coherent economic area and business supports devolution at a regional level.
The research identifies areas where Yorkshire-level devolution could make a major impact including transport, exports, inward investment and higher level skills.
The study also found that preservation of the Yorkshire brand and identity was an important asset in national and international markets..
Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and leader of Bradford Council, said: “In West Yorkshire, we are already making huge progress through the delivery of our £1bn Growth Deal, but to go further and faster in delivering for all our communities we need to take this next step towards devolution.
“The submission, supported by an independent economic study, shows that by using devolved powers and money to address the challenges we face as a region we could add up £30bn a year in output, equivalent to £5,400 per person, and I hope we can work constructively with the government to deliver this exciting vision.”
Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council and Member of the Combined Authority, added: “We are presenting a compelling case to the government to work with us to deliver an ambitious devolution deal unlocking significant benefits for our communities and the UK.
“These are ground-up proposals, supported by a clear economic case and which can be taken forward in parallel with the Sheffield City Region deal and therefore meet all the criteria the government has set.”
