In October 2025, both Westmorland and Furness and Cumberland Councils gave their final consent to the Government’s devolution proposals. It paved the way for a new era of locally based decision making and opportunity with a Cumbria Combined Authority (CCA).
A new, Mayor-led strategic authority brings additional powers and long-term funding. This includes access to a Cumbrian Mayoral Investment Fund of £333 million over 30 years. It will support transport, skills, housing and economic growth.
The CCA was formally established in February 2026. It is currently operating without a Mayor. Cumbria’s first mayoral election is due in May 2027.
Westmorland and Furness Council still delivers most of the local government services in this area.
What devolution is and how it works
Under devolution arrangements, central Government transfers powers and funding to regions. This enables local leaders to make decisions about priorities and investment based on local needs.
This approach is already established in many areas.
A combined authority for Cumbria sits alongside the two unitary councils. It focuses on issues that affect the whole county. Powers are exercised at a strategic, county-wide level, rather than by national government.
What is included in a combined authority
The authority focuses on long-term priorities across Cumbria, including:
- transport and planning
- skills and employment
- business and innovation
- community and environment
These responsibilities reflect the combined authority’s role in developing county-wide strategies and coordinating investment, rather than delivering day-to-day services.
More functions are expected to transfer to the CCA once a Mayor is elected. This includes the oversight of police, fire and crime services.
The CCA will also have a seat on the Council of Nations and Regions and the Mayoral Council. This offers an opportunity to influence the future development of devolution in England.
What happens now
The Cumbria Combined Authority is now working with both of the county’s unitary councils. Together they will develop early priorities and deliver initial programmes.
For its first year, the authority is jointly led by the leaders of the unitary councils, before an elected Mayor takes office in May 2027.
The Government has also provided capacity funding to support the establishment of the authority. This will ensure it is ready to make the most of new powers and investment opportunities.
Further information
Find further details about devolution on the Cumbria Combined Authority website