AGMA’s combined authority bid approved
THE MANCHESTER city-region is to receive new powers from Whitehall to work more effectively on issues like transport, regeneration and economic development.
Ministers have agreed plans to create the Greater Manchester Combined Authority – the first of its type in the country.
The Combined Authority complements the recent announcement of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership. Under the new arrangement, a new body – Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) – will be established which will assume responsibility for delivering transport across the Manchester city-region.
The new authority will take effect from April 1 2011.
Lord Peter Smith, chair of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA), said: “The creation of the new Greater Manchester Combined Authority means that we will have more control locally over issues that affect us all including transport, housing, economic development, skills and job creation.
“In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that the region speaks with one voice so we can make the strongest possible case for resources and investment.
“The announcement also keeps Greater Manchester at the forefront of change, which is important if we are to rebalance the economy and ensure that not just the Manchester city-region, but the entire north of England achieves its full potential.”
The new combined authority will not replace the 10 existing local authorities, but will comprise one member from each and will take responsibility for the work which the Assocation of Greater Manchester Authorities had embarked upon.
