WILTSHIRE could be set to join forces with neighbouring Somerset and Dorset in a bid to unlock more powers and boost the counties’ economies.

Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire Councils are set to submit expressions of interest in devolution, in response to a request from the new Labour Government.

The submission outlines interest in devolution to the ‘Heart of Wessex’, with the leaders of all three councils outlining the potential to unite in some areas.

It is hoped the move towards devolution would improving public services, and ensuring greater local decision-making.

A joint statement from the leaders of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils – Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans and Cllr Richard Clewer respectively – said: “We have had constructive discussions and recognise that, while each council has its own unique aspirations, there is a shared belief that working together can provide a strong foundation for devolution.

“We value our partnership working with neighbouring authorities and there are projects and services we already provide which are more effective when delivered in partnership.

“Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire Councils are keen to explore how together they may better meet residents’ needs and align with the Government’s vision for devolution.

“Each council will be submitting its own expression of interest this week but are all agreed that we wish to explore the Heart of Wessex concept and work together moving forwards.

“Discussions to date have also included BCP Council and Swindon Borough Council. Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils remain open to the possibility of working with these councils across the Wessex region.

“Clearer guidance is now needed from the Government on how it intends to complete the devolution process in full, providing more details on the desired minimum population for any devolution footprint.

“Clarity on the functions to be devolved would also help refine our approach and while we are open to exploring the right decision-making framework, at this time we don’t think a mayoral system would be right for our communities.

“Once formal proposals have been agreed with central government these will be communicated with our residents and any options will be consulted on before being taken forward.”

Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils remain open to amending their expressions of interest as further details of the English Devolution Bill emerge and will continue their own discussions with councils across the Wessex region, they said.

At the recent Labour conference, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon, said the Government was looking for a reset of the relationship between central and local government – including through devolution.

Devolution can include the creation of regional mayors – as has been done in parts of the country, such as Manchester and the West of England, including Bristol.

However, at the conference, there was also some discussion of ‘devolution by default’ for councils that meet the right conditions – with details still in development.

After a fringe meeting including the minister at Labour conference, chief executive of the Local Government Information Unit, Jonathan Carr-West, said: “It’s encouraging to have a minister of state who is genuinely enthusiastic about local government and what it can achieve.

“But there’s no magic wand to wave. Addressing the immediate existential pressures on councils while also laying the foundations for long-term transformation will be a challenging balancing act.”