Plans for Cheshire and Warrington's devolution have moved a step closer.

Cheshire East Council has submitted the results of its devolution consultation to the government.

Deputy leader, councillor Michael Gorman, believes such proposals would provide a boost to the local economy and transport network.

He said: "Devolution offers a powerful voice for growth in Cheshire and Warrington, to bring better jobs, better transport and smarter investment.

"It is about recognising that decisions about investment in our local area are best made locally, by leaders who understand the area and are at the heart of our communities, rather than in Whitehall. 

"The right agreement could offer us many opportunities – for investment, for jobs and skills, for a truly integrated transport network and to boost our economy. 

"This includes releasing the full potential of our rural economy and boosting prosperity and wellbeing for all our communities."

Councillor Gorman continued: "We look forward to the June spending review by the government, which should give us some indication of the level of long-term funding available to the new combined authority. 

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"The council's response to the consultation shows strong support for the benefits of devolution and the unique potential for Cheshire East alongside our neighbours." 

Cheshire East Council has submitted its devolution consultation response (Credit: Nub News)

In February, Cheshire and Warrington was confirmed as part of the government's devolution priority programme.

This would see mayoral elections held in May 2026, with various powers and resources transferred away from London.

Meanwhile, the existing councils would retain their current responsibilities and continue to provide services for local people.  

Ahead of a final decision being reached later this year, the government asked people who live and work in the area to share their views.

Councillor Nick Mannion, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "Now's the time for Cheshire and Warrington to join the other areas across the North West that already have devolution agreements in place and are reaping the benefits. 

"We've submitted a clear and confident case. Now we need government to commit to matching our ambition, with the right devolution agreement - one that brings proper powers, proper funding and a powerful voice for our area. 

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"We have strong and productive working relationships with our neighbours in Cheshire West and Warrington. Devolution is a real opportunity to build on this. It is not about merging councils. 

"We believe that devolution will help us to release the full potential of our borough with the wider Cheshire and Warrington area and will support us to have greater influence nationally, with a seat at the Council of Nations and Regions with the other mayors and national leaders."