WHAT IS DEVOLUTION AND WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW?
MEGAN CARTER, REGIONAL DIRECTOR AT ATKINSRÉALIS TALKS DEVOLUTION, LGR AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR HAMPSHIRE & THE SOLENT REGION
WHAT IS DEVOLUTION? Devolution is about driving growth in a way that reflects the unique needs of our region. It represents a fundamental shift in the relationship between local areas and Westminster. Power, and eventually funding, will move out of central government and into regional hands. This should enable local decisions to be taken which are tailored to social and geographical circumstances. WHAT IS A MAYOR? To enable devolution, each region will have an elected Mayor, serving a 4 year term, who acts as a true Champion of Place: advocating for regional priorities in central government, unlocking development, enabling access to investment and shaping long‐term regeneration across wider strategic geographies. WHAT IS LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION? Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is about changing the structures of local government. This involves going from smaller authorities to larger authorities, encouraging collaboration and streamlining services. This process has been completed in places like Dorset and Wiltshire. Some places, such as Hampshire and the Solent are going through devolution, and Local government reorganisation, at the same time. SO WHAT IS HAPPENING CURRENTLY IN HAMPSHIRE & THE SOLENT? First and foremost we are awaiting confirmation of our new unitary authority boundaries which should be confirmed in March 2026. The next major milestone is the creation of the Foundational Strategic Authority for Hampshire and the Solent in Spring 2026. Today, the region has 15 councils made up of county, boroughs, districts and unitary authorities. We are likely to see that number reduce to 5 unitary authorities. Elections for these authorities will take place in May 2027.
Megan Carter, Regional Director at AtkinsRéalis
House of Commons, Westminster
SPRING / 2026
BUSINESSSOUTH.ORG
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