Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes is asking the Government for funding guarantees and specialist support so BCP Council can take part effectively in any Wessex devolution deal. Safeguards are being sought so BCP Council can benefit from any Wessex devolution deal. Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes has called on the Government to guarantee fair funding and specialist support for the council. He made the call after discussions with the devolution minister about future arrangements for Wessex. He is asking for two protections as any deal is shaped. The first is a gainshare arrangement, which would giv
Safeguards are being sought so BCP Council can benefit from any Wessex devolution deal.
Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes has called on the Government to guarantee fair funding and specialist support for the council. He made the call after discussions with the devolution minister about future arrangements for Wessex.
He is asking for two protections as any deal is shaped. The first is a gainshare arrangement, which would give BCP fair funding to invest in transport, tourism, regeneration, skills and other local priorities.
The second is funded specialist capacity, which would support the council as it negotiates, plans and delivers within a new governance structure. Hayes said he wants his constituents to benefit from extra government money, but he has concerns about BCP’s ability to negotiate.
He said he had asked the Prime Minister for “safeguards” so the area can make the most of the powers and funding that devolution can bring.
Hayes also said universities, colleges, major employers and business leaders should have a “meaningful role” in shaping decisions that affect the area’s future.
