Burnham Budget Proposes Devolution for Lancashire, Mayor Election Set for 2028
What happened
Andy Burnham's Budget proposes a major devolution push for Lancashire, which includes plans for the county to elect a mayor in 2028. Chancellor John Healey's measures also include support for small businesses, first-time buyers, and help with energy bills. Rossendale and Darwen MP Andy MacNae welcomed the plan, noting it brings Lancashire closer to the powers held by Greater Manchester.
Why it matters
The proposals aim to deliver economic growth to fund public services in Lancashire. Devolution would grant the county local control over powers and funding, similar to neighboring regions. This shift is intended to ease pressure on households while supporting local regeneration projects.
Who's involved
- Andy BurnhamProposed the Budget and the devolution plan for Lancashire.
- LancashireThe ceremonial county targeted for the devolution push.
- BlackburnIs represented by MP Adnan Hussain, who offered cautious support for the plan.
- DarwenIs represented by MP Andy MacNae, who called the plan a significant win for the area.
- Greater ManchesterServes as a comparison point for the powers Lancashire seeks to gain.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- LancashireSpeculative
Could gain local control over business rates and income tax revenue through devolution grants.
- Lancashire County CouncilSpeculative
May gain new funding streams and expanded decision-making powers.
- BlackburnSpeculative
Might see its local economic capacity boosted by regional funding and devolution grants.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- Devolution push may force government to restructure Lancashire's fundingDevolution push could force government to restructure funding and powers in LancashireLikely
- Lancashire's devolution push may intensify regional competition with Greater ManchesterLancashire's devolution push may intensify regional competition with Greater ManchesterPossible
- Devolution push for Lancashire could shape Labour Party's regional policy focusDevolution push for Lancashire could shape Labour Party's regional policy focusPossible
- Devolution proposal may expand Lancashire County Council's powersLancashire County Council may gain new funding and expanded decision-making powers through devolutionPossible
- House of Commons may need to legislate to formalize Lancashire's devolution pushHouse of Commons may need to legislate to formalize Lancashire's devolution pushPossible
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Lancashire
ceremonial county in North-West England, United Kingdom
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Andy Burnham
British politician (born 1970)