DETAILS on a proposed West of England devolution deal, which includes South Gloucestershire, are being revealed so the public can have their say.

The newly negotiated deal with the Government, which also includes Bristol City, North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset Councils, is yet to be accepted, with decisions to be taken by councillors of each area in council meetings.

The four councils have negotiated over £1 billion of investment as part of the deal, which they say will help with current infrastructure problems.

The region is already the country’s most economically productive city region outside of London, but faces a number of pressures on transport and housing.

South Gloucestershire Council are set to hold their meeting on June 29, but are now offering an opportunity to the public to find out more and have their say through visiting www.southglos.gov.uk/devolution.

The council have also said that if the deal goes forward, there will be further consultation with the public during the summer, with the opportunity to make views heard to local and national government.

South Gloucestershire council leader, Cllr Matthew Riddle, said: “South Gloucestershire is an integral part of the West of England region, which is itself the biggest engine for growth in the UK outside of London. 

“In order to keep growing, to deliver services for residents and a future for the next generation through new infrastructure, skills and employment, we need more investment.

“The West of England Devolution Deal provides an opportunity for us to share in £1 billion to achieve that aim.

“The deal would bring more money, more powers and more local decision-making, to help us focus on the key priorities for the region including transport, investment, funding, skills training, business support, housing and strategic planning. 

He added: “All of this will benefit South Gloucestershire as these issues are bigger than any single local authority boundary, but joint decisions will reflect local priorities.

“The deal on offer is among the best negotiated across the country, but the Government have been clear it is conditional on the introduction of an elected Metro Mayor. 

“It would put us as a group right at the top table when it comes to discussing new opportunities for future Government investment in the region in future.

Addressing the need for public opinion on the deal, Cllr Riddle said: “We want to hear the views of residents before we make our decision on whether to proceed with the deal, or not, as a council.

“I would encourage people to read the deal document and the frequently asked questions and let us know what they think."