Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce (TVCC) has welcomed today’s announcement that the Thames Valley has been placed on the Government’s programme for a new Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA). It has also set out what businesses expect to see next.
The Chancellor confirmed in today’s Budget that the Thames Valley will progress with plans for an MSA. Leaders across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Swindon wrote to the Minister for Local Government earlier this week confirming their ambition to work with Government to develop a MSA.
The 13 councils in the MSA will now develop the proposal ahead of a “stakeholder consultation” planned for the new year. A formal proposal will go to Government in Spring 2027. A shadow MSA would follow later in 2027, with mayoral elections in 2028.
Paul Britton, CEO, TVCC, said:
“Our local leaders deserve credit for their ambition and commitment. The Thames Valley now has an opportunity to take greater control of its economic future.
“Devolution won’t be judged by announcements from Westminster. Businesses will judge it by a longer-term plan for strategic infrastructure, improved access to skills, and by addressing housing needs.
“The Chamber also recognises Buckinghamshire remains an important part of the Thames Valley’s economic success, and we expect Government to honour its commitment to ‘further engagement’. We should leave the door open to Buckinghamshire joining the MSA.
Business must be involved in the co-development of the MSA and its delivery priorities. We stand ready to bring businesses, educators and other anchor institutions together to help shape and deliver a shared economic plan for the Thames Valley. Collectively we must not let this opportunity go to waste”.
Chamber statement
The progress towards a Mayoral Strategic Authority is a significant step forward for the Thames Valley, and local leaders deserve recognition for their commitment.
But devolution must deliver more than new structures. Businesses need a longer-term strategic plan at scale for transport, housing and skills, supported by genuine powers and financial resources.
Government must also respond positively, matching local ambition with a clear route to implementation, while recognising the economic importance of Buckinghamshire and keeping the door open to joining the new MSA.
The Chamber stands ready to bring businesses, educators and anchor institutions together to help shape and deliver a shared economic plan that will secure the future competitiveness of our vibrant region.
