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One Suffolk Residents summary

On 2 October, Suffolk County Council voted in favour of creating a new Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) for Norfolk and Suffolk. If Norfolk County Council also consents on 16 October, the government will lay a Statutory Instrument to formally establish the new Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) - unlocking more than £1 billion in investment for our region over 30 years

One Suffolk Residents Summary

But what does this have to do with local government reorganisation (LGR)?

The opportunity presented by devolution

Devolution is related to LGR, but different.

Devolution means shifting power and funding from central government to local areas. For Suffolk, it means we get more control over decisions that affect us, like housing, transport, skills, infrastructure and public services.

Instead of relying on national decisions made in Westminster, devolution means that Suffolk and Norfolk can shape our own priorities, based on what matters to our communities.

Why One Suffolk strengthens devolution

Devolution brings real opportunities for Suffolk: more local control, more funding. But to make the most of it, the new MCCA needs to work with local government that is clear, effective and strategically aligned.

That’s where One Suffolk comes in.

A single Suffolk council provides one strong, consistent voice to work with the MCCA. It means that:
• Growth plans, housing, infrastructure and skills strategies can be shaped county-wide, aligning fully with the MCCA’s powers and funding
• Suffolk’s unique strengths - like its clean energy sector and natural heritage - can be championed with focus and clarity.
• Complex partnerships with national bodies (such as infrastructure or health agencies) can be managed more effectively.
• Public service reform, a key part of the devolution deal, becomes easier to deliver, through more joined-up, preventative and community-based approaches.

The MCCA will operate at a regional level, but it relies on strong, locally connected councils to make delivery happen on the ground. One Suffolk provides that foundation.

Read more about devolution on page 26 of the One Suffolk proposal.

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