As this week draws to a close, a devolution deal for East Anglia is being finalised with the intention of delivering our very own ‘Eastern powerhouse’. In doing so, we have a once in a generation chance for Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire – three counties with similar economies and similar interests – to join together to deliver a joined up East Anglia and I for one, would like to see this happen.
Unlike the Northern Powerhouse, the Eastern region is a net contributor to the national economy. For instance, East Anglia is projected to return a £2.2 billion surplus this year and over £8 billion by 2020. However, investment and development within East Anglia is often overlooked and we must fight to gain the essential improvements to our broadband, roads and rail infrastructure. Residents in the East can and should expect the same exacting standards that areas like Manchester will receive. By simplifying the levels of governance, bureaucracy and enabling local decision makers, this can be a reality.
Devolution plans so far have focused on key areas of transport and infrastructure, housing, skills, employment and fiscal powers. The intention is to deliver greater powers for the local region within these areas to unlock the potential of local investment and improve support to essential services. For example, establishing a thirty year, multi-billion pound Investment Fund for the East allows a greater expansion and connection to key revenue areas like Felixstowe and injects funds into local transport links particularly our railways and buses.
However, concerns have been raised about the way in which any decision will be delivered and by whom. The stipulation any deal would include an elected mayor or leader - similar to agreements for the North and the Midlands – has made some wary. The introduction of this strategic leader - no different to other local representatives including town mayors and councillors - would be accountable for the self-regulating interest of East Anglia.
For our region there is much to be gained from devolution besides the increased autonomy. Devolution can streamline the organisation and representation of local areas from small towns and villages to the boroughs. Counties can share in their individual and mutual successes and working together, build a stronger and more cohesive region to influence not only its own, but UK wide, regional and national matters.
As I see it, our region is bursting with potential from Cambridge University to our off shore energy coast and everywhere in between. This week would mark the beginning of a long and detailed process to deliver what our region needs; a decision by East Anglia for East Anglia. What we must decide is whether we have the drive, the ambition and the nerve to make the most of our area. I think we have all of this and more- to prove we can be a leading devolved region.
Published in EADT
