Devolution
On Wednesday 5 February, the government announced Hampshire and the Solent region will be part of the devolution fast-track initiative.
The decision to fast-track the application will establish a new Strategic Mayoral Authority for Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight, with elections for the new mayor to be held in May 2026.
FAQs
What is devolution and why has it come about?
Devolution is the biggest change to local government in a generation. Alongside the combined authority, there will be an elected mayor. With local council leaders, the elected mayor will make decisions about how to spend certain pots of money in HIOW. Working together across the two county’s boundaries in areas including transport, skills and employment support, housing and planning and tackling climate change.
How will local government be reorganised?
The decision on how local government will be reorganised (Local Government Reorganisation or LGR) is currently under discussion. Councils will discuss how the 15 councils in Hampshire (11 district and four unitary) will be organised. For more information on local government reorganisation, visit Hampshire County Council’s website:
https://www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/governmentinhampshire/devolution
What will happen to the OPCC?
The OPCC remains but will become a department in the Mayoral combined authority; all statutory functions remain and must be delivered by the mayor. In combined mayoral authorities, a deputy mayor for policing, fire and criminal justice is appointed to complete the day to day work of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
What is the OPCC's position on this?
PCC Donna Jones released a statement on March 13 (link) which outlines her position in the lead up to May 2026. As it is likely the PCC role will be subsumed into the Mayor’s office, the Commissioner has made it clear she will run for Mayor.
The PCC will continue to carry out all the functions of her role, and remains committed to prioritising community safety, strengthening partnerships to reduce crime, and being a voice for victims.
Is the government consulting on this?
Yes. The government launched a public consultation on Feb 17 which closes on April 13. The consultation seeks views on a proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for the local government areas in Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Isle of Wight Council, and Southampton City Council (referred to as Hampshire and the Solent in this consultation).