Region's new combined authority confirmed

East Yorkshire and Hull's new Combined Authority has been officially confirmed.

The government announced on Wednesday that legislation had come into force formally establishing the body.

The move would allow work to begin and bring the region closer to unlocking a £400m investment fund, alongside a transfer of powers from national to local level, according to council officials.

It would allow the region to reach its "full potential", they added.

The Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority will be overseen by a directly elected mayor, with elections taking place in May.

Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council will retain their independence and continue their work as normal, alongside the combined authority.

The new combined authority will take on powers relating to transport, allowing it to develop a single transport plan for the entire region.

The Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Mike Ross, said: "I'm delighted that we have got to this stage in the process after years of hard work by many people.

"For too long our area has been left behind, but it's now time for us to reach our full potential.

"The creation of the combined authority unlocks vital empowerment and investment, and I believe we have the talent and drive to make the most of what devolution brings."

Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, described it as "a significant landmark" in the devolution process.

"It's great to receive official confirmation that devolved powers will be coming to our area, with an elected mayor, and the ability to unlock investment and opportunities for our region," she added.

A devolution deal for Hull and East Yorkshire was agreed in September.

At the time, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said the changes were about "rebalancing the power between Westminster and our communities".

However, critics, including the Hull Labour group, previously said the area does not need another layer of local government.

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