The role of the regional mayor

Having an elected regional mayor is a requirement for having the best local devolution deal (with the most extra funding and local powers).

Having an elected regional mayor also puts more power in local hands. Currently, many of the powers which we are looking to devolve to a regional level are decided nationally, by those voted into office by people who live in other parts of the country. The mayor, and local council leaders who would be part of a future combined authority, would be voted into office by people who live in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, with much more of a vested interest in the region, and accountable to people in the East Midlands.

The role of an elected regional mayor would be to look at major issues which affect our whole area, a prominent, accountable person who can look at the big picture and give the region more of a voice.

A mayor with a clear and direct mandate, strong accountability, and the power to make change happen, could be a powerful driving force for the East Midlands.

If approved, the mayor would work together with leaders of local councils to create a strategy for the wider area. This is a critical role, and it is essential that this person should be democratically accountable.

Local councils would still be responsible for most public services, such as waste management, schools, recreational facilities, and so forth. The mayor would focus on wider issues that span across the area, like transport, regeneration, and employment.