New powers transferred to Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority

A Parliamentary Order has been signed to formally transfer powers to a new Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority, giving local people and leaders more control over the region’s future.

Minister for Devolution, Miatta Fahnbulleh, formally established the Mayoral Combined Authority, which paves the way for the region to elect its first Mayor in May 2027.

The Mayor and Combined Authority will have control over powers related to transport, skills and investment, including a 30-year investment fund worth £650 million.

Having a Mayor means Cheshire and Warrington will have a seat at the table on key northern, national and international platforms.

The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority will hold its inaugural meeting in April 2026. Its board will be made up of the leaders and deputy leaders of Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Warrington Borough Council, before a Mayor is elected in May 2027.

Leader and Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council, Cllr Nick Mannion and Cllr Michael Gorman, said:

“Devolution will bring a new approach to the region’s skills agenda and the opportunities we can offer to local people and businesses. We want to make Chesire and Warrington the best place for businesses to invest and find new talent, and give local people the opportunities to find work, improve their skills and thrive.

“We want to support the rural economy by developing transport links, promoting the dairy industry and making the case for digital connectivity. This will make our region an even more attractive place to live, work, invest and visit.”

Minister for Devolution, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said:

“With over £650 million in investment unlocked through devolution, I have every confidence that the region will go from strength to strength.

“Working alongside neighbouring Mayors and with a stronger voice on the national stage, Cheshire and Warrington is well-placed to deliver better jobs, better transport and real opportunity for its residents.”

Steve Purdham, Chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Business Advisory Board, said:

“Cheshire and Warrington has been a real success story within the Northern economy and wider UK. We’ve been able to buck the trend nationally by embracing new growth opportunities and moving forward with ambition and drive for our region.

“Devolution is good business: it brings power closer to home, will help local companies grow and attract the talent and skills they need, and bring new investment into Cheshire and Warrington. We look forward to working with the new Mayor to unlock the potential of our people, places and businesses.”

The announcement on 24th Feburary follows news in January that the Combined Authority has appointed former Chief Executive of Homes England, Nick Walkley as its Interim Chief Executive.

The Combined Authority Shadow Board has been working since October 2025 to establish the robust foundations needed for successful devolution, including approval of the region’s ambitious 20-year Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Strategy.