West of England Metro Mayor Helen Godwin has announced her top priorities for the year ahead, including an overnight tourist tax across the Bristol and Bath region, improved public transport connections, and stronger links with North Somerset.
First Year Milestone
The Labour mayor, who leads the West of England Combined Authority (Weca), marked her first year in office by outlining her vision for the future. Elected in May 2025 with 25.0% of the vote, Godwin holds decision-making powers over jobs, transport, the environment, planning, and business support across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire.
On Tuesday, May 5, Godwin welcomed the Devolution Action becoming law as a "huge step forward," stating it would "empower" the West of England. "Our ambitions match the West of England's potential as we look to do more, faster," she said.
Transport and Infrastructure
Godwin is pushing for a potential light rail link to Bristol Airport and announced plans for more "green" buses across the region, alongside the development of a "mass transit" system. New train stations at Bristol Brabazon and Charfield are also progressing. "In the coming weeks, we will be banging the drum for the country's fastest-growing regional economy at a major investment conference in Leeds," she added.
She highlighted Bristol Temple Quarter and the Brabazon and West Innovation Arc new town as among the UK's biggest regeneration opportunities, stressing the need for the right transport links to support new homes.
Devolution and New Powers
The one-year milestone coincides with the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act receiving Royal Assent on Wednesday, April 29. This law transfers more decisions from Whitehall to the West of England, granting the mayor and combined authority additional powers in transport, strategic planning, economic development, and health. "As mayor of my home region, I'm proud of the difference that we've made over the last year," Godwin said. "Our region's voice is being heard at last, as we work to make the most of devolution."
Key Achievements and Future Plans
During her first year, Godwin secured approval to revive the Portishead railway line and emphasised that building more links with North Somerset remains "a top priority." She also promised "exciting news to come" for nature in the region. "There is a lot to look forward to for people across the West of England," she concluded. "We have started to deliver real change that people can see and feel."
