Across the country, political leaders share a common goal: creating an environment where private enterprise can flourish, which, in turn, creates more and better-paid jobs, allowing workers to keep more money in their pockets. A virtuous circle, so to speak.
One of the most effective ways of achieving this has been through English devolution – the transfer of powers and resources from Whitehall into the hands of local and regional leaders who know their areas best.
The story of devolution so far is one of partnership. By working hand in hand with government, local leaders have been able to leverage investment, create jobs and transform opportunities for their communities.
The success of combined authorities and mayoral offices in leveraging devolved powers demonstrates how this approach can unlock potential that might otherwise remain untapped.
It is fair to say that, since last year’s general election, my office has worked incredibly well with the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on the devolution agenda, unlocking opportunities for growth and investment in our region. They have been true to their word of working in a non-partisan manner and I think this demonstrates a maturity that benefits Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool, and the wider devolution agenda.
In my patch, devolution has enabled bold, long-term decisions about the local economy.
Working closely with government, the region has been able to attract world-leading investment in the industries of the future. These opportunities are creating high-quality jobs for local people and building skills pipelines for the future.
None of this would have been possible without the powers devolved to the mayoral level and the constructive partnership with government departments to make investment happen.
Importantly, however, devolution means greater accountability. Devolved leaders are directly answerable to their residents, ensuring that decisions reflect local priorities.
This democratic connection helps build public trust in a single point of contact and ensures that decisions are shaped by the people who stand to benefit most.
As devolution expands to more areas of England, there is an opportunity to deepen these partnerships further.
Greater fiscal flexibility – including the ability of mayors to lower any general or business tax rates devolved to them – and longer-term funding settlements will be vital in sustaining momentum.
The goal should be clear: a system where local leaders have the tools and certainty to deliver, and where government is a supportive partner in enabling places to succeed.
The results so far should give confidence. By working together – on a cross-party basis – we are seeing towns and cities regenerated, new businesses attracted to the region from abroad, and communities given renewed pride in their future.
Devolution is not an end in itself – it is a means to drive real, tangible change.
That change comes only through partnership, with local and national government working side by side.
The story of devolution is, ultimately, the story of partnership working at its best – and the potential for economic growth is only just beginning to be realised.
I genuinely think this government understands this and I hope it continues with the ambition it has shown to date.
Visit Tees Valley Combined Authority website to find out more.