County Durham would be “left behind” if it did not join a combined North East devolution deal, councillors have been told.
More money, greater powers, and better opportunities have been promised within a combined authority compared to an individual county deal, as Durham County Council cabinet members approved plans to join the recently announced LA7 devolution.
Residents will be given the power to directly elect a mayor for the region at an election in May 2024 if the process is approved following a local consultation.
