Cumbrian councils decide to push forward with proposals to create a regional mayor

A public consultation will be held under both council areas. Credit: ITV Border.

Cumbria's two councils have both agreed to ask the Government to create a mayor for the county.

Cumberland Council and Westmorland Council have jointly decided to join the Government's Devolution Priority Programme, which aims to create greater power for local authorities.

The new Government aims to improve decision-making by giving more local responsibility to regions over issues such as transport, housing and economic development.

Leader of the Westmorland and Furness Council, Cllr Jonathan Brook, held a cabinet meeting putting the decision to a vote.

Meanwhile Cumberland Council Leader, Cllr Mark Fryer, agreed to sign a notice stating their desire to be part of the devolution programme on 9 January 2025.

  • ITV Border spoke to the public to find out their views on the possibility of having a regional mayor

Today's decision allows for the next stage of looking at a new strategic authority for Cumbria, creating a position for an elected Mayor.

A public consultation will be held under both council areas - becoming part of a final decision later in the year.

A Cumbrian mayor would add further additional responsibilities. It would not take over from the current two councils which were formed in April 2023, to replace the former Cumbria County Council and six district councils.

The Leader of the Westmorland and Furness Council, Cllr Jonathan Brook, said: "Some things are better done on a bigger geography than simply a local council so we would have that.

"We'd also have a seat at the Mayoral Council and the Council of Nations and Regions.

"Clearly, if we don't have a seat at that table then the voice of Cumbria won't be heard - that won't do us any favours at all."

During the Westmorland and Furness Council cabinet meeting on 9 January 2025, some councillors did share concerns that local authorities have already gone through recent changes.

They also made claims that the Government has not yet set out how much funding would be received for the extra responsibility.

Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said: “We have made it clear that we want to be part of the devolution discussion with Government.

"It is the best way to secure future investment in our area and secure the funding needed to support our communities and our economy.

“It is important that we are part of the plans at the early stages.”

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