Devolution passed two milestones recently, with the Government publishing the English Devolution and Community Engagement Bill and its response to consultations on establishing Mayoral Combined County Authorities in Sussex and Brighton and Hampshire and the Solent.

Following the consultations, the Government has confirmed it intends to establish Mayoral Authorities for Sussex and Brighton, and Hampshire and the Solent, subject to the proposals meeting the required statutory tests. These would be the first areas of the South East to benefit from devolution.

TfSE welcome the additional powers and funding that devolution promises and remain committed to supporting both Mayoral Strategic Authorities and Local Transport Authorities in the South East. These new authorities will be able to draw on the strength of our evidence base, including our Transport Strategy and Strategic Investment Plan.

Meanwhile, our Centre of Excellence will continue to help all our Local Transport Authorities deliver their transport priorities providing data, modelling and expertise in the months ahead.