COMMUNITIES minister Sajid Javid has pledged his support to Tim Bowles, the Conservative candidate for the West of England Metro Mayor, ahead of May’s election.

Mr Javid joined Mr Bowles and MP Ben Howlett MP for a visit to a new housing development in Bath on Thursday.

Cllr Bowles, who represents Winterbourne in South Glouecstershire Council, is one of the candidates already announced for the job of running the West of England join-authority of South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Bath and North East Somerset.

Through devolution, the councils will be given additional powers in a number of areas, including housing and transport.

During his visit, Mr Javid, the secretary of state for communities and local government, said: “It was fantastic to link up with Tim and learn more about his plans to deliver affordable homes in urban regeneration areas, as well as his ideas around the economy, skills, jobs, transport and superfast broadband.

“The role of West of England Mayor is hugely important and exciting as the candidate elected in May will be responsible for spending around £1billion on major infrastructure and support projects to benefit residents across the region.

“Tim is a local man who knows the West of England well, he cares about the area and he has the leadership, knowledge and experience to take the region forward.”

Mr Bowles said: “It was great to meet Sajid and Ben in Bath today and discuss my priorities for the region, including my plans for affordable housing.

“I want to deliver housing in urban regeneration areas where demand is greatest, where good infrastructure exists, where there are strong employment opportunities and where new developments will boost regeneration.

“In prioritising urban development over greenfield and greenbelt land, I will also make sure our housing allocations are fair, with a focus on supporting first-time buyers by creating affordable homes.”