Devolution Brings 'Huge Opportunities' For Isle Of Wight And Hampshire, Says Chief Executive

The chief executive of the new Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority (HSCCA) says devolution will create "huge opportunities" for the Isle of Wight and the wider region.

The authority will officially begin work following its inaugural board meeting in Southampton on Monday, bringing together Hampshire, Southampton, Portsmouth and Isle of Wight councils.

As part of the Government's devolution programme, the HSCCA will take on new powers and funding, including access to an investment fund worth £1.3 billion over the next 32 years.

Chief executive Dr Ruth Adams said the new authority would allow local leaders to make more decisions about how money is spent, rather than relying on central government.

"It's not just about getting money out of government," she said.

"It's about thinking what will work in a particular context and situation."

The investment fund is worth the equivalent of £44.6 million a year, although funding will initially be capped at £17.8 million annually until the region elects its first mayor in May 2028.

Dr Adams said the authority could quickly take on greater responsibilities, pointing to other combined authorities that had grown to oversee programmes worth around £150 million within a few years.

She said much of the funding would not necessarily be new money, but would instead be controlled locally rather than by Whitehall.

The board will include representatives from Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council and the Isle of Wight Council.

Dr Adams said one of her priorities would be ensuring the four councils work closely together with businesses and universities to develop a shared vision for the region.

She also highlighted defence and tourism as sectors where the region could benefit most from devolution.

"We are one of the strongest regions in defence," she said, adding that increased Government spending could give the area a stronger voice in future decisions.

She also described the region as one of the country's strongest visitor destinations, saying proposals such as an overnight visitor levy could provide opportunities to reinvest in tourism and create a more sustainable visitor economy.