Leader of Isle of Wight Council, Phil Jordan, shares this latest news. Ed
The Isle of Wight is set to benefit significantly from the establishment of the Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority (HSCCA), with confirmed funding that will support growth, create new jobs, improve transport, and enhance local skills.
Local Government Minister, Jim McMahon, has written to the four Solent area authority Leaders confirming that once the HSCCA is established – following the mayoral election in May 2026 – the combined authority will receive £44.6 million each year for 30 years.
Second highest funding settlement ever for devolved area
This long-term Investment Fund, calculated on a per-capita basis to ensure fairness, is a unique opportunity to deliver tailored improvements across the Solent region. The funding will be split equally between capital and revenue, with complete flexibility to target local priorities.
The Isle of Wight, as an equal member of the combined authority, will benefit from its significant share of this strategic investment funding. It is the second highest funding settlement ever for an England devolution area.
Mayoral Capacity Funding
In addition, the HSCCA will receive Mayoral Capacity Funding to support the set-up and development of the new authority.
The first instalment of £1 million will be provided in 2025-26, followed by a minimum of £3 million over the subsequent three years, enabling the Isle of Wight and its partners to prepare thoroughly for day-one delivery of projects and services.
Isle of Wight will have a direct voice in decision-making
This investment represents a transformational opportunity for the Isle of Wight. It will allow the Island to improve services such as transport, unlock new housing and infrastructure projects, and expand skills and employment programmes designed to meet local needs.
As part of the Combined Authority, the Isle of Wight will have a direct voice in decision-making, ensuring that regional priorities reflect the Island’s unique geography, economy, and communities.
Starting point for additional funding
Ministerial statements reaffirm that these funds are new and exclusive to areas within the Devolution Priority Programme at the mayoral tier, highlighting the Government’s commitment to regional growth and local empowerment.
It is also the start point for additional funding and devolved areas are already receiving substantial, multi million-pound, further grants in addition to this core funding.
Authorities to work closely together
The Isle of Wight Council and partner authorities will continue to work closely to establish the HSCCA, ensuring that residents benefit from these unprecedented opportunities as soon as the new combined authority is operational.
Jordan: A landmark moment for the Isle of Wight
Speaking today, Councillor Phil Jordan, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said,
“This is a landmark moment for the Isle of Wight. Being part of the Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority means we will have a direct voice in shaping regional decisions while securing significant investment for our communities.
“The £44.6 million annual funding, along with dedicated Mayoral Capacity Funding, will allow us to improve transport, create jobs, enhance skills, and unlock infrastructure projects that matter most to our residents. Devolution gives the Island the opportunity to plan for the future on our terms, ensuring sustainable growth and a stronger, more connected Solent region.
“We are, and will remain, equal partners in the strategic combined authority with an equal voice, an equal vote and equally benefitting with our partner authorities”
