Issue - meetings

RESOLVED: that the Board:

1.      Note the publication of the Level 4 Framework and the opportunities this presents to the South Yorkshire MCA.

2.      Note that the MCA has engaged with the formal process of securing Level 4 Framework powers in line with the guidance set out by the Government on the 23^rd November 2023.

An update report on Devolution was presented. It noted representations which had been made to Government regarding the MCA’s intention to proceed to a “Level 4” Devolution deal. It also noted that the MCA Board had now written to the Secretary of State, and that MCA Officers were engaged in discussions with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities, and expected to hear back before the pre-election period.

It was noted that Government was now moving to a more standardised offer fr the remaining MCAs following the Greater Manchester and West Midlands Trailblazers.

Members welcomed the update but expressed disappointment at the lack of a consistent approach on business rate retention or a single-pot settlement in the current offer. The Mayor stressed that disparities in devolution offers would only continue inequity between regions.

RESOLVED: that the Board:

1.    Note the publication of the Level 4 Framework and the opportunities this presents to the South Yorkshire MCA.

2.    Note that the MCA has engaged with the formal process of securing Level 4 Framework powers in line with the guidance set out by the Government on the 23^rd November 2023.