Following on from OnTheWight’s most recent report about the Mayoral County Combined Authority, we thought it would be useful to give readers a summary of the consultation findings.
The government has now published the results of the eight-week consultation on proposals to create a new Hampshire and the Solent Mayoral Combined County Authority (HSCCA) as part of the Solent Devolution plans.
If established, the authority would cover Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council.
Consultation and objectives
The consultation, which ran from 17th February to 13th April 2025, sought views from individuals, councils, businesses, and community groups. The aim was to assess whether the proposal met statutory tests for improving the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the region.
Responses helped the Secretary of State determine whether forming the HSCCA is appropriate and whether further consultation is needed.
Response breakdown
A total of 6,150 responses were received, from a population of more than 2 million.
Of these, 5,988 were from members of the public and 162 came from organisations including local councils, businesses, charities, and academic institutions.
The majority of responses were submitted online, with 32 received by post.
Themes raised in favour
Supporters of the proposed HSCCA welcomed the idea of stronger regional leadership through a directly elected Mayor. They pointed to the potential for improved strategic planning, better coordination on environmental issues, and the ability to attract investment and funding for transport, housing, and skills.
Many said the authority could improve services in areas with fewer resources, including parts of the Isle of Wight and Totton. The potential for more coherent transport links, especially in rural areas and across the Solent, was also raised.
Concerns raised by opponents
Those opposed expressed concerns about local representation, suggesting the authority could concentrate power in the hands of a few larger councils. Others feared local decision-making might be undermined.
Respondents highlighted risks such as overdevelopment, increased pressure on green spaces, and a perceived bias towards urban centres in future transport strategies. Some also warned the creation of the HSCCA could add an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy.
Views from stakeholder groups
Constituent councils expressed support for devolution and the investment opportunities it could bring. They called for fair representation and governance safeguards to protect local influence.
District councils asked for continued input on planning and housing decisions. Parish and town councils stressed the importance of recognising the needs of smaller communities and sought a formal role in future governance structures.
Businesses welcomed the idea of streamlining regional planning, but stressed the need for a responsive authority that delivers clear outcomes. Charities and voluntary sector organisations called for community representation in strategic planning and better access to devolved funding.
Academic institutions supported stronger coordination between skills and economic policy, but urged that education strategy remain long-term and inclusive.
Government response and next steps
The government welcomed the level of engagement and recognised both the support and concerns raised. It stated its continued commitment to devolution, arguing that local Mayors can provide clearer leadership and drive growth across regions.
To address concerns, the government emphasised that devolution moves power closer to communities, not further away. It pledged to work with councils to ensure town, parish and district voices are heard within the HSCCA.
Plans are also being considered to streamline governance structures in the region, with a shift towards unitary authorities to avoid duplication and confusion.
Mayoral oversight will include scrutiny and audit committees, as well as public accountability measures such as a ‘Mayor’s Question Time’.
The government confirmed £1 million in Mayoral Capacity Funding for 2025/26 to support the new authority’s setup, and a 30-year investment fund for the region as part of the devolution offer.
Possible timeline
If the proposal meets statutory requirements and constituent councils give their consent, secondary legislation will be laid before Parliament.
If approved, the Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority could be established in time for the first mayoral election in May 2026.
You can read more about the consultation responses by visiting the Government’s website.
