Mayors to gain new financial powers under upcoming devolution plans
The Guardian · July 30, 2026Original source ↗

What happened
Regional mayors in England will have the ability to borrow for major projects under new plans, allowing them to retain a portion of income tax and business rates from their regions. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on government funding from Whitehall, starting from 2028.
Why it matters
This change could impact local governance and funding for projects across English regions.
Who feels this
If you rent your home
Increased funding for local projects could lead to improvements in infrastructure and services in your area, potentially enhancing your living conditions.
If you are a small business owner
The ability of mayors to retain a portion of business rates may result in more local investment and support for small businesses, which could help stimulate economic growth in your region.
If you are a commuter
New financial powers for mayors could lead to better public transport projects, improving your daily commute and potentially reducing travel times.
What does this mean for YOU, specifically?
Ripple builds a profile of your life — your career, your city, your family — and tells you how each story hits it. The analysis above is generic; yours won't be.
Get your RippleMore stories
- PoliticsAbdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Democratic Senate primary
- PoliticsMichigan Democratic Senate Primary Results Remain Uncertain
- PoliticsMichigan Senate Democratic primary race remains close as El-Sayed leads Stevens
- PoliticsJewish leaders decline meeting with Conservative council candidate Joshua Bonehill-Paine