The first monthly column by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire – originally published by The Press. 

August 1, 2022, was a big milestone for York and North Yorkshire. Not only was it Yorkshire Day but an historic devolution deal was signed for our region. The deal set in motion a process that started moving certain powers from central Government to York and North Yorkshire and secured £540 million in investment over 30 years.

Jumping ahead to August 2024, I have recently completed my first 100 days as Mayor of York and North Yorkshire. In this, my first monthly column for The Press, I have to say how much of a privilege it is to be elected Mayor. Supported by the newly formed York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, it’s our role, working closely with the two local authorities, to create a long-term vision for the region and to deliver the devolution deal.

When I started on May 7, I had a clear idea of what I wanted to achieve in my first 100 days in office. I wanted to meet as many as you as possible to understand your challenges and opportunities. This has helped shape plans for four funds worth £27.5 million. The Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund, Carbon Negative Challenge Fund, Business Innovation Fund and Skills Innovation Fund will enable growth across the region and test new ideas.

Having run a small business in York for many years before I became Mayor, I have seen first-hand how the high street is changing and I am keen to see a high streets fund established which will support you, your communities and our region’s economy. The £10 million of high streets funding we have agreed in principle can make a real difference. Work is taking place now to develop all four funds further. There will be announcements on fund launches in the coming months.

Transport and working with fellow mayors

Transport is a key area where the region has new, devolved powers. I have visited places across the region from Selby to Low Bentham to listen and understand your views, as well as talking to rail sector specialists and others within the transport industry, whilst working closely with both local authorities, I am keen to develop a transport system that works for all, linking across borders, to make sure we’re serving you effectively. That is why working with my fellow mayors is really important.  Our focus will be heavily on public and active travel options, creating a region where people are connected to opportunities in an affordable and reliable way.

We must, also, make it easier for people to live here. Homes need to be in the right places, where they are connected into transport, education and jobs. They, also, need to be affordable, therefore I’m pleased that our York and North Yorkshire Brownfield Housing Fund continues to move forward. Last month, further funding was approved meaning, overall, £11 million has been allocated to help build more than 1,000 homes on brownfield sites in the region – 433 of which are affordable.

All this work is built around a new Economic Framework, which positions the strategic aims for the organisation. It has healthy and thriving communities at its core, alongside aims around affordable and sustainable housing and transport, vibrant and sustainable places and boosting business and a thriving workforce.

Another big change to have taken place is around responsibilities attached to community safety. I was delighted by the appointment of York councillor Jo Coles as Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime. This role replaces what used to be known as the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, and is an important position. Jo is working with me and other partners to ensure that you, businesses, and visitors feel safe.

Looking ahead

Looking towards the coming months, we will build on this strong start by developing a 10-year economic growth plan, which we will be consulting on later this year. This will be supported by a new Business Board, and the recently launched Invest in York and North Yorkshire partnership, which focusses on six key sectors.

We’ve had positive meetings with the new Government about the prospect of deeper devolution and further investment for York and North Yorkshire. Our region is unique among other devolved areas and that will help our growth potential becoming a trailblazer for rural economies.

In the past, there were comments that our region was falling behind our neighbours. Now we’re at the top table. We have the backing of Government, there is a strong working relationship between the Combined Authority, City of York Council and North Yorkshire Council, and I know from speaking with people around the region that the opportunities devolution brings is being recognised. We are now firmly underway on our devolution journey, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead.

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Published Thursday 29 August 2024