Charnwood leader backs calls for elected mayor across Leicester and Leicestershire

A senior local authority leader has backed plans to give Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland greater control over investment, infrastructure and skills through a new regional mayoral authority.

Councillor Jewel Miah, Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, has joined council leaders from across the area in writing to Government in support of establishing a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA).

Supporters of the proposal say the new structure would strengthen the area’s ability to attract investment, support economic growth and take strategic decisions across local authority boundaries.

Councillor Miah said: “Businesses and universities need the right conditions to grow, including skilled workers, strong transport links and investment in infrastructure. A Mayoral Strategic Authority would give Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland a stronger voice with Government and help secure the funding and powers needed to support economic growth.

“Charnwood is a borough shaped by nature and driven by discovery, home to Loughborough University, Charnwood Campus and a thriving business community at the heart of the UK. We want local firms to benefit from new investment and opportunities.

“An elected mayor could help unlock funding for transport and skills, strengthen links between employers and education providers, and support the creation of better-paid jobs. I am keen for Charnwood to play an active role in discussions with Government to help shape the MSA.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure greater local influence over decisions that affect our economy and future prosperity.”

The proposed devolution arrangements are being considered alongside wider plans to reorganise local government.

That process would replace existing councils with a smaller number of unitary authorities responsible for delivering local services, while devolution would shift certain powers and funding from central Government to strategic authorities.

Mayoral Strategic Authorities would have access to a broader range of powers and Government funding, giving local leaders greater influence over areas including economic development, transport and skills.

For businesses across the region, supporters argue the model could provide a more coordinated approach to investment and strengthen links between employers, education providers and local infrastructure.