Gives area extra millions
CALDERDALE COUNCIL’S leader has welcomed a £1.8 billion devolution deal for West Yorkshire which authority chiefs say will unlock decades of investment for West Yorkshire.
West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) leaders, including Calderdale’s Tim Swift, say the deal gives West Yorkshire far greater decision-making powers to the region, in addition to the financial settlement, and will include electing a Mayor for the region – to be elected in May 2021.
Coun Swift (Lab, Town) welcomed the news as “a good deal” which would help drive through the authority’s goals.
“Our focus will be on supporting local priorities.” Coun Tim Swift
“This is a good deal for Calderdale and for West Yorkshire, devolving significant powers and investment from a national to a regional level.
“Our focus will be on supporting local priorities – increasing investment in our regional infrastructure and building an inclusive economy which provides good quality employment in our towns and cities.
“We will also prioritise improvements to public transport so it offers a practical and sustainable alternative to car use, improving air quality by reducing congestion and supporting our work to tackle climate change,” he said.
The Budget sees Government pledge £39.9 million for key Calderdale schemes including a new Halifax Bus Station and revamped Halifax Railway Station,
which have been in development, and indicated cash will be available for flood alleviation projects in the storm-hit Calder Valley.
The funding will also see improved traffic-free access to Elland Station including two pedestrian/cycle bridges and upgrades to cycling and walking access to Brighouse station
WYCA leaders say the £1.8 billion in investment to drive up living standards through better transport, improved skills and stronger businesses, while tackling the climate emergency, has been secured in an agreement which is the biggest ever of its kind.
It includes a Government commitment to support the development of a West Yorkshire Mass Transit System and investment from the Transforming Cities Fund which, with the other resources available through the deal, will enable the delivery of the full pipeline of West Yorkshire transport projects submitted in the region’s bid.
The deal also includes a guaranteed £1.1 billion over the next 30 years in a new West Yorkshire Investment Fund, money to develop plans for future housing sites and a new heritage fund.
The deal allows the region to set its own priorities including ensuring a vibrant future for towns and rural areas while securing the economic success of cities, said the joint statement.
Becoming a devolved mayoral area will be critical in ensuring West Yorkshire is in the best place to access to future funding and powers given the Government’s increased focus on making mayoral combined authorities its primary route for supporting regional economic development, it goes on.
The agreement follows extensive negotiations between the Leaders of West Yorkshire Councils, including Coun Swift, and Communities Minister Simon Clarke supported by officers from West Yorkshire authorities and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.