Tell us how to splash out!
REGION WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU
EARLIER this year, West Yorkshire was given the ability to choose how to spend vast sums of money across the region.
After years of fighting with central government and councils across the county, a West Yorkshire devolution deal was signed with the backing of the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak.
It means that towns and cities all over the region will have a say on how to spend millions on things such as transport, infrastructure and education. A West Yorkshire mayor will also be elected next year.
Now though, the five councils who have signed up to the historic agreement want to hear your views on where the public money should be spent.
The councils in Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Calderdale and Kirklees are actively urging people to get in touch with their thoughts about how the huge pot of money should be spread across West Yorkshire.
The public consultation will run for the next eight weeks until the middle of July.
In a joint statement, the West Yorkshire leaders said: “This is an important milestone in delivering the West Yorkshire devolution deal, which will drive up living standards through investment in transport, improving skills and supporting business.
“Although this deal was signed in what now feels like a very different time, its importance has only grown as our region responds to the Covid19 pandemic and plans for the recovery of our economy and our communities.
“We know that our region is particularly vulnerable to economic downturns and some of our communities will be among those hardest hit. The additional funding from this deal, more than £1.8bn, and the freedoms it provides to make major decisions will be crucial as we shape a recovery that ensures all our communities are supported and strengthened.
“Over the longer term, our commitment remains to raising living standards, improving air quality and tackling the climate emergency while making a full contribution to the UK’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
“We expect the Government to continue to make new funding and powers available to areas with devolution deals and this agreement will ensure we’re at the front of the queue.
“Devolution means that decisions taken by central Government will instead be devolved to local decision makers, more directly accountable to local people.
“We look forward to moving forward with the consultation and hope as many people as possible take the opportunity to have their say on this deal and the future for West Yorkshire it can help us deliver.”
There are several ways to get in touch. Visit the West Yorkshire Combined Authority website, email wyconsultation@ipsos-mori.com or call 0800 141 3657. You can also send a letter free of charge to: Freepost WY Devolution Consultation.
The consultation closes on July 19.