Devolution: what’s it all about

THE Devolution Agreement aims to transfer power and responsibilities to Greater Manchester to drive economic growth, reform public services and benefit people who live and work in the region.

To ensure accountability, a directly elected Mayor — the first outside London — will become the 11th member of the Combined Authority alongside the leaders of the 10 Greater Manchester councils.

Chancellor George Osborne announced the devolution plans almost a year ago and the proposal was signed by the region’s 10 council leaders at Manchester Town Hall.

The deal will see the Greater Manchester Mayor take control over transport, housing, planning and policy. He or she will also take control of a £300 million Housing Investment Fund and become the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

The plans also give the Greater Manchester Combined Authority more say in business, health and social care budgets.