The Solent region will be better placed to tackle transport and infrastructure challenges if plans for a new combined authority go ahead, says property consultancy JLL.
As councils urged the public to have their say on a new devolution deal for the Solent, David Ramsay, director at JLL in Southampton, said: “It is welcome news that we are moving a step closer to a new combined authority, a move that will enable more joined-up thinking on areas such as transport and infrastructure.
“These are areas that are crucial in ensuring the future prosperity of the region; indeed this new devolution deal could help to deliver transport and infrastructure projects that have not been possible through individual authorities. It would be good to see other authorities, including Hampshire County Council, join the bid too to ensure the full benefits of devolution can be realised and to avoid a fragmented approach to decision-making in the region.
“I would encourage people to respond positively to the public consultation that is being carried out and support the three councils’ plans.”
