Norfolk and Suffolk take another step towards greater regional control and investment
Norfolk Chambers has welcomed the decision by Suffolk County Council to renew its consent for the Norfolk and Suffolk devolution deal, bringing the region another step closer to establishing a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA).
Devolution is about transferring certain powers and funding from central Government to local and regional leaders, allowing decisions to be made closer to the communities and businesses they affect. The proposed MSA – a cross-council partnership led by an elected mayor – would provide a louder, more coordinated voice for Norfolk and Suffolk, helping the region shape its own economic priorities and make the case for investment.
For local businesses, this could mean greater influence over the infrastructure, transport links, skills provision and investment needed to support growth and improve the competitiveness of both counties.
Commenting on Suffolk County Council’s decision, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chambers, Nova Fairbank, said,
“We’re delighted to see both County Councils take this major step towards the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) in Norfolk and Suffolk. Devolution represents an incredible opportunity for the region, set to unlock greater potential for investment, influence and economic growth – so the business community will be glad of the reassurance this decision brings.
“Norfolk Chambers has long advocated for the benefits of greater local decision-making. Historically, the East has been overlooked by the Government: despite a contribution of over £45bn per year to the UK economy, our region receives almost £1,000 per capita less investment than the rest of the country. Critical infrastructure projects are left in limbo, with Norfolk and Suffolk’s talented workforce cut off from employers in desperate need of their skills.
“Greater local control over infrastructure and funding is therefore key to ‘turbo charging’ economic growth. It’s encouraging to hear both councils acknowledge the immense potential of Norfolk and Suffolk’s economy, as is the commitment to a truly collaborative approach. The challenges we face are not the concern of Norfolk or Suffolk, but Norfolk and Suffolk: by working together, we strengthen our voice on the national stage.
“As the voice of business, Norfolk Chambers will continue to work alongside Suffolk Chamber and businesses of all sizes across the region to help both the councils and the eventual MSA realise the potential of its business community, delivering the support and investment our businesses deserve.”
The renewal of consent by Suffolk County Council is an important step in progressing the devolution deal. The next stages will see both Councils work with the Government on the detailed governance arrangements and legislation needed to establish the authority, aiming to hold the first mayoral election in May 2028.
A Mayoral Strategic Authority would give Norfolk and Suffolk an opportunity to speak with a stronger collective voice when dealing with central Government, putting the voice of the region’s business community at the heart of national decision making. It would also give local authorities greater powers over infrastructure, skills, and investment – including access to a long-term investment fund worth more than £1.1 billion over 30 years.
For Norfolk’s business community, the opportunity is significant. Better-connected transport networks, greater access to the right skills and a stronger regional economy are all important to creating the conditions in which businesses can grow.
Norfolk Chambers will continue to champion the interests of businesses across the county, working with Suffolk Chamber, both County Councils and regional partners to ensure that the needs and ambitions of the business community are represented as the devolution plans progress.