Issue date: 12 February 2026
Sussex has reached a significant milestone in its devolution journey, with government laying the Statutory Instrument in parliament that will formally establish the Sussex & Brighton Combined County Authority. This is the final legislative step and will enable the new Mayoral Combined Authority to be created this spring.
Government has also confirmed that, although mayoral elections have been delayed until 2028, devolution continues at pace, led by the constituent councils.
Ministers remain committed to transferring significant powers and funding to the Sussex and Brighton Combined County Authority, including:
- a long-term investment fund totalling £1.14 billion, providing sustained long-term funding for locally agreed priorities
- £30.4 million released over the next two years before mayoral elections, enabling early investment in programmes that matter most to Sussex residents and businesses
- £9.0 million in capacity funding over four years to support the establishment and operation of the new authority
Council leaders welcomed the progress with Cllr Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, commenting: “This is an historic moment for Sussex & Brighton with devolution very much on track. Over the past year we’ve strengthened our relationship with government, and successfully leveraged more money and new powers into our region. This important next step will help deliver real benefits for our city and the wider region.”
Cllr Paul Marshall, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “This is an important next step in bringing further powers to the region which will provide strategic planning and funding for key areas such as transport and infrastructure, as well as a voice at national level. This milestone has been achieved through close partnership working and we continue these relationships to ensure the new combined county authority will delivery for our residents and the region.”
Cllr Keith Glazier, Leader of East Sussex County Council, added: “We’re now nearing the start of the new authority which we’re all determined will further power up Sussex for the benefit of everyone who lives and works here. This will mean more investment and opportunity and give us an even stronger voice together.”
Future of local government in Sussex
