THE Government has announced delays to the rollout of mayoral devolution in areas still undergoing complex local government reorganisation.

In response, the Wessex Partnership – Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole councils – is calling on ministers to let the region move forward and hold mayoral elections in 2027.

Council leaders Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans, Cllr Ian Thorn and Cllr Millie Earl said the four authorities have already completed local government reorganisation, unlike Greater Essex, Norfolk & Suffolk, Hampshire & the Solent and Sussex & Brighton, where devolution plans have been paused.

“We are ready to go now,” they said, urging the Government to put Wessex on the same timetable as Cumbria and Cheshire & Warrington.

The partnership warns Wessex risks being left behind, with nearly 80% of England expected to be covered by Mayoral Strategic Authorities.

The councils estimate the lack of a mayoral deal could mean a £300.74 million funding shortfall in 2025/26 – around £159 per resident.

Leaders say creating a Mayoral Strategic Authority would close that gap, unlock £16 billion in extra GVA over 30 years and attract investment in key sectors including defence, clean energy, digital technology and life sciences.