Timeline

Cumbria’s Devolution Journey: Key Milestones

  • Late 2024
    Local leaders in Cumbria express interest in a devolution deal. The Government’s English Devolution plan invites regions to take on more powers. This is the start of Cumbria’s journey to form a Combined Authority.
  • Early 2025
    Cumbria is selected to join the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme. Our plans get support and momentum.
  • Summer 2025
    The Government launches a public consultation to gather feedback on the proposal to establish a Mayoral Combined Authority in Cumbria. People, businesses, and organisations across Cumbria share their views. The Government confirms that our area meets all the legal tests for moving forward.
  • Autumn 2025
    Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council debate the devolution proposal. Both councils give their final consent to create the new Mayor-led Combined Authority.
  • Early 2026
    The Cumbria Combined Authority will be formally established. At this point, the CCA will begin operating without a Mayor for a transitional year. The two councils will collaborate within the Combined Authority structure, planning initial strategies and preparing for new investments and programs. The groundwork will be laid for ambitious projects in transport, skills, and more.
  • May 2027
    Cumbria’s first Mayor will be elected. Residents across the whole county will get to vote to choose a Mayor who will lead the Combined Authority. The elected Mayor and council representatives will take the helm of the Cumbria Combined Authority. With a Mayor in office, Cumbria gains a strong champion to push for our needs and make the most of the devolved powers and funding.
  • Beyond 2027
    With the Combined Authority and Mayor in place, the focus is on delivering results. Over the coming years, you can expect to see projects roll out that improve transport, create jobs, build homes, and address climate challenges, all coordinated at the Cumbria level. 

The government agreed to a request to move the election from May 2026 to May 2027. The election will run alongside unitary council elections, saving an estimated £1m in costs.