I have been trying to understand how the Localism Act will impact on LEPs.
One of the key measures to increase the power of local government through the Act is by opening the door for the transfer of power to our major cities to develop their areas, improve local services, and boost their local economies, specifically to promote economic development or wealth creation.
Further powers can be devolved to core cities at their request, without the need for additional legislation.
As I understand it there are 8 core cities.
| Core Cities | LEP |
| Birmingham | Greater Birmingham and Solihull |
| Bristol | West of England |
| Leeds | Leeds City Region |
| Liverpool | Liverpool City Region |
| Manchester | Greater Manchester |
| Newcastle | North Eastern |
| Nottingham | Derby Derbyshire Nottingham Nottinghamshire |
| Sheffield | Sheffield City Region |
It will be interesting to see what powers are requested and by whom.
It will also be interesting how the role of elected mayors fits into LEPs. As 11 cities will be able to decide whether or not to have an elected Mayor.
