Sussex has reached a pivotal point in its devolution journey, with the government laying the Statutory Instrument in parliament to formally establish the Sussex & Brighton Combined County Authority.
This marks the final legislative step, paving the way for the creation of the new Mayoral Combined Authority this spring. Although mayoral elections have been postponed until 2028, the devolution process is advancing rapidly, driven by the constituent councils.
The government is committed to transferring significant powers and funding to the Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority. This includes a long-term investment fund of £1.14 billion for locally agreed priorities, £30.4 million to be released over the next two years for early investment in key programs, and £9.0 million in capacity funding over four years to support the new authority’s establishment and operation.
Council leaders have expressed their support for this progress.
Cllr Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, stated, “This is an historic moment for Sussex & Brighton with devolution very much on track. Over the past year we’ve strengthened our relationship with government and successfully leveraged more money and new powers into our region. This important next step will help deliver real benefits for our city and the wider region.”
Cllr Paul Marshall, leader of West Sussex County Council, emphasised the importance of this step in bringing further powers to the region, which will provide strategic planning and funding for key areas such as transport and infrastructure, as well as a voice at the national level.
Cllr Keith Glazier, leader of East Sussex County Council, added that the new authority will further empower Sussex, bringing more investment and opportunities.
West Sussex County Council and its partners are leading efforts for historic changes to local government across England. Work is underway on two separate processes to shape the future of local authorities and service delivery across the county.
The cabinets of West Sussex County Council, East Sussex County Council, and Brighton & Hove City Council agreed on a joint bid to be part of the priority programme, approved in February 2025, to expedite the benefits of devolution for Sussex.
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