Elections Postponed: Hampshire Gears Up for Solent Mayor in Devolution Move

Hampshire’s elections are delayed until May 2026 as a Solent mayoral authority forms for Southampton, Portsmouth, Isle of Wight boosting local decision-making.

Elections Postponed: Hampshire Gears Up for Solent Mayor in Devolution Move
Elections Postponed: Hampshire Gears Up for Solent Mayor in Devolution Move

County elections are now on hold because of a big change coming. They’re making a new group for four areas: a mayoral authority.

Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight are involved. People will vote for a new mayor in May 2026.

Angela Rayner spoke about other areas, naming five possible devolution areas like Cumbria and Cheshire. Warrington, Essex, and other places are also on the list. Rayner says this speeds up change in those areas.

She said devolution puts money in pockets and creates quick, better transport. Local folks design the transport system.

The government delayed this decision before. The county elections won’t happen in May 2025. Liz Jarvis, an MP, called it “a disgraceful stitch-up.”

Southampton’s council seemed happy; Lorna Fielker, the council leader, thinks it is a “major step forward.” The government recognizes the region. Fielker thinks Southampton helps the UK economy.

A regional mayor helps with choices about transport and other things. This will give the area more money.

Hampshire County Council’s leader didn’t comment yet. This decision moves power to the local area, improving things for the people. They are working to make things better.

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