The West of England Combined Authority has unveiled a substantial budget proposal for the 2026-2027 financial year, marking a significant nine per cent increase to a total of £416 million. This record investment, championed by West of England Mayor Helen Godwin alongside local council leaders, aims to address critical regional priorities including transport infrastructure, housing shortages, and cultural development.
Transport and Infrastructure Boost
A cornerstone of the budget is a major allocation for transport improvements, with £32 million dedicated to highway maintenance across the region. Within this figure, an additional £7 million has been specifically earmarked to tackle the persistent issue of pothole repairs in areas including Bristol and Bath. This targeted funding seeks to improve road safety and driving conditions for residents and businesses alike.
Furthermore, the transport levy is set to rise by £1.6 million to bolster bus services. This investment builds upon the first three-year Bus Grant for the West of England, enabling £28 million to be spent on supported bus services and £9 million on fare initiatives. These schemes include free travel for care leavers, capped fares for children, and the popular 'Kids Go Free' holiday programme, making public transport more accessible for families.
Addressing Housing and Supporting Business
Recognising the acute housing crisis, the authority has proposed spending £11 million on projects designed to increase housing availability and affordability. This investment is part of a broader strategy to ensure growth benefits all communities within the region.
In parallel, business support programmes are set to expand. The Made Smarter initiative, which helps companies enhance productivity through digital technology adoption, will receive continued backing. Additionally, £525,000 is allocated for Low Carbon Business Support, aiding local enterprises in transitioning to more sustainable operations.
Cultural Investment and Governance
Cultural projects also feature prominently in the budget. The Fashion Museum Bath is slated to receive £1.745 million from the regional Investment Fund to support its planned relocation to the historic Grade-II listed Old Post Office in Bath's Milsom Quarter. A full business case for this move is expected to be developed during the summer.
Mayor Helen Godwin emphasised the budget's transformative potential, stating it will "help us keep writing this new chapter for the West of England" by making a tangible difference that residents can see and feel. She highlighted the collaborative efforts to secure government funding and attract further investment to generate local jobs and opportunities.
The authority is also undertaking internal reforms, including an organisational improvement plan with a new senior structure and the implementation of a target operating model. A constitutional review, with recommendations from external auditor Grant Thornton, aims to enhance governance. A new Project Management Office will be established to provide oversight and coordination for major programmes.
Community-Focused Vision
Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, welcomed the record investment, noting the importance of directing funds towards community priorities like transport, housing, and business support. He stressed the necessity of ensuring this investment reaches every neighbourhood, including those that have been historically overlooked, as the region continues to grow.
The proposed budget will be formally considered at the Mayor and Council Leaders’ meeting on January 30. With a new Business Board convening and ongoing commitments for additional funding and powers, the authority describes these as "exciting times" for the West of England as regional development efforts intensify.
