Wearsiders urged to have their say on devolution

Sunderland Council leader Coun Paul Watson.

Wearsiders are being asked for their views on devolution before council leaders decide whether to sign up to a formal deal.

The leaders of the councils which make up the North East Combined Authority (NECA) - Durham County Council, Gateshead Council, Newcastle City Council, North Tyneside Council, Northumberland County Council, South Tyneside Council and Sunderland City Council - signed an agreement with the Government in October agreeing to further discussions on devolution.

Now Sunderland City Council is asking people what they think before it decides whether to sign up to a formal deal.

Council leader Coun Paul Watson said: “This is a really important decision for the city and residents have a vital role to play in helping us decide where we go from here.

“So we’d encourage people to take the time to complete the short questionnaire we’ve posted online.”

The council is this week sending out a newsletter to every household in the city informing people about devolution and how it could impact on them.

People have until February 17 to respond with their views online at www.sunderland.gov.uk/devolution or by post to Freepost RTHL-TJHS-TXGA, Sunderland City Council, PO Box 102, Sunderland SR2 7DN

Under devolution, North East leaders would receive an extra £30m a year over 30 years to set up an Investment Fund to help business growth.

NECA members would also be handed more decision making powers on transport investment, particularly public transport.