Decision - Sussex and Brighton devolution and mayoral election

The report will seek updated consent to the laying of the amended Statutory Instrument for the creation of the Sussex & Brighton Mayoral Combined County Authority, following the announcement of the Mayoral Election being delayed to 2028.

1) That Cabinet notes the content of this report, including the assessment of the implications for Brighton & Hove City Council of creating a new Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority with a delay to the election of a mayor. 2) That Cabinet confirms its approval in principle to consenting to devolution and delegates authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, to undertake all steps necessary to provide consent on behalf of the Council to the Statutory Instrument that the Government proposes to lay before Parliament to create a new Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority. 3) That Cabinet delegates authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, to approve any technical amendments to the Statutory Instrument on behalf of the Council. 4) That Cabinet agrees the proposed local 2-year Memorandum of Understanding for financial contributions and liabilities in establishing the Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority as set out in appendix 3.

The Government intends to delay the inaugural mayoral election for Sussex and Brighton until May 2028 so that local government reorganisation and the creation of new unitary authorities can be completed first. Sussex and Brighton will still be able to establish its Mayoral Strategic Authority, access devolved powers and receive funding for local growth before the election.