County one step closer to having elected mayor

Cumbria has taken one step closer to potentially having an elected mayor.

Westmorland and Furness Council cabinet members have voted in favour of joining a fast-track devolution programme, and Cumberland's council leader has signed a Leader's decision notice to be part of it.

The move kickstarts a government-led consultation process on the creation of a strategic mayoral authority, with any final decision requiring council approval in the autumn.

If devolution is agreed by all involved, the election of a mayor could take place in May 2026.

A majority of senior Westmorland and Furness councillors voted to join the devolution priority programme at Kendal Town Hall.

Devolution in the area would mean more decisions made by regional leaders, rather than central government, probably with an elected mayor.

The proposed new strategic authority would be in addition to the existing councils in Cumbria, the authorities said.

Mark Fryer, the Labour leader of Cumberland Council, said devolution was the "best way" to secure future funding.

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrat leader of Westmorland and Furness Council Jonathan Brook urged residents to engage with the consultation process that will follow the decision.

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