RESOLVED that the Council’s response to the County Deal for Norfolk consultation be agreed, and delegate to the Chief Executive the submission of the finalised response in consultation with the Leader.

Breckland Council are in firm support of devolution, and the role that it can play in levelling up the district, and Norfolk as a whole. However, it is our belief that the proposed County Deal for Norfolk misses an opportunity, and there are elements of it that are not ambitious enough. By submitting a formal consultation response making this case, it is hoped that this may result in a rethink by the County Council and Government around certain elements of the Deal.

As stated, both in the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper, and by the County Council, emphasis is placed on working with district councils as part of the proposed County Deal; however, we believe that these commitments should be stronger, with each district, city and borough council in Norfolk given proper say. This can be achieved by adopting a MCA model, therefore ensuring that all local authorities are involved in the decision-making process.

Option 1 – To approve Breckland Council’s draft response to the County Deal for Norfolk consultation.

Option 2 – Do nothing.