Published on Thursday 18 December 2025
Ahead of the Local Government Financial Settlement expected this week, the Leaders of the Wessex Partnership – comprising Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Councils – have once again called on ministers to allow Wessex to move forward with a devolution deal.
All councils in Wessex are already unitary authorities, well‑placed to deliver devolution and support the Government’s growth priorities. The English Devolution White Paper makes clear that enhanced funding is tied to devolution deals. Without one, Wessex risks being left behind.
Council leaders Cllr Nick Ireland (Dorset), Cllr Bill Revans (Somerset), Cllr Ian Thorn (Wiltshire) and Cllr Millie Earl (BCP) said:
“We are calling on government to act now and not miss out on the opportunities that Wessex has to offer – we are ready to go now with a deal and any delay by government risks holding our region back.”
"Government has the power to accelerate investment and drive growth in the Wessex region, delivering better outcomes for our communities and better value for taxpayers. We urge Government to let Wessex take its place alongside other fully unitary areas.”
Analysis by the four councils shows creating a Strategic Authority for Wessex would:
- Close the funding gap and secure a fair share of national investment.
- Unlock an estimated £16 billion in additional GVA over 30 years, driving prosperity across the region.
- Attract public and private investment in sectors where Wessex leads nationally: defence, clean energy, digital technologies and life sciences.