DORSET could share a mayor with Wilshire and Somerset following revised devolution proposals which aim to attract more funding.

In September, Dorset Council announced alongside Somerset and Wiltshire councils that it hoped to create a 'Heart of Wessex' region in order to 'unlock greater powers and resources for the area'. 

READ: Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset councils may work together

In a joint statement, the leaders of the three councils, Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans, and Cllr Richard Clewer said they have revised original proposals to include a model for a directly elected mayoral governance system.

They insist that under devolution plans the councils will remain separate local authorities and this 'is not a merger'.

The statement read: “We have submitted a revised expression of interest to central government for the Heart of Wessex devolution deal. This submission reflects our shared vision for unlocking significant opportunities for our communities.

“This is not a merger of the three councils, all three will remain separate local authorities.

"Devolution is the handing down of powers and decision making from central government to new 'local partnership' areas. The make-up of the individual councils who may work together will not change.

“Whilst our preference would be for not having a mayor, government has made it clear that all devolution deals will end up with mayoral combined authorities.

"Ultimately, this model will help secure better funding deals for our region; therefore, our revised proposal aligns with this approach, and we have set out our commitment and intent for a directly elected mayoral governance system.

"This proposal ensures clear, accountable leadership to drive economic growth, improve public services, and invest in vital infrastructure across the region."

With a population of around 1.5 million living within the three local authority areas, the council leaders have said that the mayoral devolution will help develop a 'long term investment plan'.

The statement continued: “The Heart of Wessex encompasses a region of significant potential, and we feel that devolution at scale can support our ambitions to ensure our local economy thrives and is supported by a skilled, secure and well-paid workforce.

"Mayoral devolution also offers the opportunity to develop a long-term investment plan for the critical infrastructure our counties need with the ability to bring in additional private sector investment.  

“We have made clear our strong desire to be considered in the first tranche of devolution deals, recognising the commitment of our councils to lead change in local government and move forward as swiftly as possible.

“We believe the Heart of Wessex presents a realistic and ambitious offer which can redefine local decision-making and partnership across the patch."

If the proposal is approved, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire councils will continue to exist and have the same responsibilities as they do now. 

The offer to BCP Council and Swindon Borough Council to join the Heart of Wessex partnership remains open.