West Midlands mayor Andy Street has seized on a pledge by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham to argue that the region needs more power outside London. Street said Burnham's commitment to securing greater devolution for the North West shows that the West Midlands must also push for similar freedoms.
Burnham's Pledge Sparks Devolution Debate
Burnham, who is seeking re-election in May, promised to campaign for more powers for the North West if he wins. He said the current system is too London-centric and that regions need control over areas like transport, housing, and skills. Street responded by saying the West Midlands cannot afford to be left behind.
"Andy Burnham's pledge is a clear signal that the current settlement is not working for the regions," Street said. "The West Midlands has already shown what devolution can achieve, but we need more. We need the same opportunities as London to drive growth and improve public services."
West Midlands Devolution Achievements
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) was established in 2016 and has since overseen projects like the Midland Metro expansion and the Commonwealth Games. However, Street argues that further powers are needed to tackle issues like the cost of living crisis and to boost productivity.
According to the WMCA, the region has secured over £1 billion in investment through devolution deals. But Street insists that more can be done: "We have a strong track record, but we are still limited in what we can do. We need control over adult education budgets, more say on rail franchises, and the ability to borrow to invest in infrastructure."
Cross-Party Support for Regional Power
The debate over devolution has cross-party support. Labour's Burnham and Conservative Street both agree that regions need more autonomy. Street said: "This is not about party politics. It is about ensuring that the West Midlands gets a fair share of power and funding. We are united in our ambition to level up the country."
However, some critics argue that devolution has not delivered enough for ordinary people. A recent report by the Institute for Public Policy Research found that the gap between London and the regions has widened despite devolution. Street acknowledged this but said: "Devolution is not a silver bullet, but it is a necessary step. We need to build on what we have achieved and push for more."
Next Steps for West Midlands
Street is calling on the government to publish a white paper on devolution and to commit to a new wave of powers for metro mayors. He said: "We need a clear timetable and a commitment to fair funding. The West Midlands is ready to take on more responsibility."
The West Midlands mayor is also seeking re-election in May, and the devolution debate is expected to feature prominently in the campaign. Street said: "I will continue to fight for the West Midlands. We have a proud history of innovation and enterprise. Now we need the tools to build a brighter future."
