Surrey devolution deal announced in Autumn Statement welcomed by councillors

The deal will not require a directly-elected mayor for Surrey

Council leaders have welcomed a new devolution deal which has been offered to Surrey.

It was announced by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt in his Autumn Statement.

It means Surrey County Council (SCC) will be given more decision making powers over transport, adult education and support for businesses.

SCC leader Tim Oliver said the deal would give the authority "more control over things like local growth, skills and careers for our young people."

Mr Oliver added: "It's not perfect but it is going in the right direction."

Under the new plans there will be no changes to borough or district councils in the county, and there no requirement for there to be a directly-elected mayor.

'Great opportunity'

Speaking in the Commons, Mr Hunt said Surrey was one of several places being offered more devolved powers.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council's Residents Association group, described it as a "great opportunity".

While Liberal Democrat Stephen Cooksey, the leader of Mole Valley District Council, said while he foresaw the deal being "positive news for services", he was trying to get more details about it.

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