Council leaders across Cheshire and Warrington have pledged that “no one will be left behind” as plans for regional devolution move forward, promising that the benefits will be felt across all communities, including rural areas.
The announcement follows a government-led consultation earlier this year, which revealed concerns among rural residents that devolution might disproportionately favour urban centres. Respondents expressed fears that a Mayoral Combined Authority could overlook the needs of smaller towns and rural communities.
In response, local leaders have reassured residents that devolution will be inclusive, with targeted investment and decision-making that reflects the diverse needs of the region.
“We’re listening, and we will ensure that devolution brings benefits to all areas – including our rural communities,” council leaders stated.
If approved in September by Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and Warrington Borough Council, the devolution deal would pave the way for mayoral elections in May 2027. The new authority would gain greater control over economic development, regeneration funding, and skills investment, enabling more responsive support for local industries such as life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
In a joint statement, the leaders of Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, and Warrington Councils said:
“We’re backing devolution because we are confident that it will bring enormous benefits for the whole of Cheshire and Warrington. We also recognise the feedback from the government’s consultation, which is why one of our key priorities is to ensure that rural communities and businesses benefit from the funding and powers that devolution will bring.
“We’re listening to the feedback we’ve had so far, and we’re committed to ensuring that devolution will bring benefits to all areas – including our local rural communities. We want to celebrate the unique character of our rural areas, while also making sure they feel supported and connected, both now and in the future.
“Devolution for our area means giving every corner of Cheshire and Warrington – from vibrant towns to rural hamlets – the power to shape its own destiny. This is more than just a governance change – it’s a truly transformative moment in our collective history.
“We’re ready to invest in our people, businesses and public services, and stand up for all our communities to ensure that no one will be left behind by any future changes to our area. We will work tirelessly to ensure that the benefits of devolution will be felt by all communities across the whole area.”
Local business leaders have long called for a more agile approach to funding, training, and networking. Devolution could help deliver this by empowering councils and a newly elected mayor to collaborate directly with businesses, ensuring growth is driven by local priorities.
This commitment to inclusive devolution marks a significant step in ensuring that rural voices are heard, and that market towns and countryside communities benefit equally from future investment and development.
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