The Leader of Milton Keynes City Council has responded to the Government's call for councils to confirm their preferred approach to devolution by reaffirming support for a new Strategic Mayoral Authority covering Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes (BLMK).
In 2024, Government first announced plans to transfer power away from Whitehall into the hands of local leaders.
A strategic authority would not replace existing councils. Instead, it would give local leaders greater influence over decisions currently made by central government, including transport, housing, skills, infrastructure, investment and economic growth, working closely with a directly elected Mayor. This would help ensure decisions are made closer to the communities they affect and better reflect local priorities, helping areas reach their full potential.
Milton Keynes City Council formally backed a BLMK Strategic Mayoral Authority as its preferred option for devolution in June 2025 and continues to believe it is the most effective way to secure additional powers, funding and investment for the area.
"A strategic authority covering Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes is the logical choice and offers the best opportunity to secure more powers, greater investment and better outcomes for local people. It is time to get on with devolution now so our residents and businesses don't miss out on the benefits that it can deliver."