A new North East mayor could be elected by 2024 under a fresh devolution deal to bring major new powers and more than £1bn to the region, local leaders hope.
After the Government published its long-awaited Levelling Up white paper on Wednesday, there is renewed optimism that councils on either side of the Tyne will finally be able to reunite and unlock much-needed investment – particularly to overhaul an ailing public transport network.
Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove confirmed that he will be “taking forward negotiations” for expanded devolution arrangements in the North East, though Durham will be invited to agree its own single-county deal.
