I warmly welcome the commitment to devolution shown in the King’s Speech today and the confidence signalled for UK Mayors to act as the Government’s enablers for delivery.

The commitment to growth, to be shaped by Growth Plans for local areas means that each area of the UK can build on their distinctive strengths and unique capabilities to reach their full potential. This approach is particularly important to York and North Yorkshire. We are in many ways different to other mayoral regions, but just as ambitious and ready to deliver growth. We are already on with developing our Growth Plans and will work with government at pace to ensure that our plans are in place and support the ambitions of York and North Yorkshire.

I am happy to see the quick progress being made towards planning reforms, greater local and national controls on bus and rail transportation, as well as measure to improve safety in our communities, for women and girls and on the high streets.

Essentially, the announcements within the King’s Speech today sends a strong signal that we need to get on and deliver. That as mayors, where houses need building, we will be supported to build, and where people need better connections to opportunity, we will be supported to get on and connect them.

I’m excited to work with the Government, my fellow Mayors and in close collaboration with our regional partners to ensure that devolution delivers for York and North Yorkshire. As Mayor, I will work hard to ensure that we make the most of our diversity and ensure that across our rural, coastal and urban areas, York and North Yorkshire is a vibrant place with opportunity for all. 

Published on Wednesday 17th July 2024