Hampshire and the Solent devolution reaches new milestone

The Government has confirmed that it will be progressing with the creation of a new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) for Hampshire and the Solent

Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council, and Isle of Wight Council are working closely with Government on the legislative framework that will underpin the new powers to formally establish the new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) later this year.

The proposed MCCA will unlock new opportunities for communities with significant additional funding and powers devolved from central Government to the region, with a focus on driving economic growth, investment in infrastructure, transport, and planning.

Devolution represents a unique opportunity to shape our region’s future. It will enable decisions on transport, housing, skills, and economic growth to be made closer to the people they affect, ensuring that new investment and policy in these areas reflect local priorities.

This follows the announcement on the introduction of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill across England last week (Thursday 10 July). The bill sets out to achieve the change the public expect by working with communities, not dictating to them.

Elections for the new Mayor of Hampshire and the Solent MCCA will take place in May 2026.

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: "Today’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for Southampton and our partner councils. It reflects our shared ambition and readiness to take on greater powers and deliver real benefits for our communities.

“My predecessor, Councillor Lorna Fielker, worked closely with the Leaders of Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Portsmouth to be placed on the Devolution Priority Programme. Building on the strong partnership working already in place across the region, this is a historic step forward for local democracy and regional growth — and we’re proud to be part of it."

Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, said: “This is a landmark moment for Hampshire and the wider region, with devolution offering a real opportunity to bring decision-making closer to the people and places it affects most. For our area, this is about unlocking new investment, driving economic growth, and delivering long-term benefits for our communities - giving residents a strong voice in shaping the future of our towns and neighbourhoods. We look forward to working closely with local partners, businesses, and community leaders to turn this opportunity into meaningful change on the ground.”

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: "Devolution has the potential to benefit Portsmouth residents and businesses and the wider area and deliver extra regional powers and investment in jobs, infrastructure and services.

"This announcement shows the Government recognises we're ready to take on more responsibility for the things that matter to people living here. It's important we now secure the powers that will have the impact we need for our area, so we will continue to work with partners to create a new strategic authority that delivers the best outcomes for residents."

Devolution is separate to the Government's plan for Local Government Reorganisation, which it is progressing at the same time and would see existing councils replaced by new larger, single councils which cover populations averaging around 500,000 people.