On the 1st of May, the denizens of Greater Lincolnshire will be making their way to the voting booths to select their very first mayor for the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA). This opportunity, granted to all registered voters, lets the populace decide who will manage their united county for the coming four years. This follows the approval of a devolution deal by the government back in September, leading to the formation of the GLCCA, a coalition of Lincolnshire County Council, North East Lincolnshire Council, and North Lincolnshire Council.
The newly elected mayor will serve as a direct liaison to Westminster, bearing the responsibility of advocating for Lincolnshire. The role requires robust, conspicuous leadership and a focus on local priorities in all decision-making processes. The mayor will be at the helm of the combined county authority, managing strategic planning, investments, and the delivery of crucial services. These include transport, skills, employment, business growth, and infrastructure. In serving a four-year term, the mayor will be accountable for ensuring that devolution brings real benefits to the communities.
The GLCCA will operate with a yearly budget of £24m and will be governed by a board responsible for supervising strategic decision-making and ensuring effective use of devolution powers. Additionally, three specialist boards comprising local leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders will concentrate on key areas crucial to Greater Lincolnshire’s growth and prosperity. Meanwhile, Lincolnshire County Council, North East Lincolnshire Council and North Lincolnshire Council will continue their usual operations alongside the GLCCA.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
