The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA) is set to approve the start of a consultation on the combined authority expanding to include North Somerset Council.
Negotiations with the national government have already unlocked an additional £15 million in the short-term for projects in the region, should North Somerset join.
An additional £1 million has been offered to assist with the process of the local authority joining Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire councils as a full member of the regional authority, led by the Mayor of the West of England.
The government has also committed that, should the expansion proceed, future funding will “take account of an expanded WECA geography and population”: likely increasing future allocations of funding transport improvements and a major new national housing fund. North Somerset joining would add 23% to the combined authority’s population, to a total of 1.225 million, bringing the benefits of devolution to another almost quarter of a million more people and further strengthening the voice of our part of the world.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said: “Together we have negotiated a deal that’s a real vote of confidence from the government.
“The new chapter that we have started in the West is being backed up with new investment. Millions of pounds more for local projects, and a commitment to greater funding in future based on our larger geography, would make a real difference for communities across our region.
“Supported by local leaders across party and council boundaries both before and after the election, together we have built momentum towards a consultation on North Somerset joining the combined authority.
“I am looking forward to hearing from local residents and businesses across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire as we consider what I know many feel to be a long overdue next step.”
Councillors Maggie Tyrrell and Ian Boulton, Co-Leaders of South Glos Council, said in a a statement: “We welcome the opening of the consultation and encourage residents to learn about the proposed changes and to submit their views.
“Our region will be shaped by these important decisions and it is vital that we hear your input. We will always look to work with our neighbours whilst maintaining our individuality.”