Here’s a staggering reality: the South Midlands is hemorrhaging millions annually—yes, millions—due to the absence of a devolution deal. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the region sits on untapped economic potential, local councils are locked in a standoff that’s costing everyone dearly. Let’s break it down.
Established just 14 months ago, the South Midlands Business Board was tasked with guiding six local authorities—Northamptonshire, Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, and others—on strategies to boost economic growth. Yet, according to Jason Longhurst, the board’s chair, the region is losing between £80 million and £100 million each year by failing to secure a devolution deal. That’s money that could be fueling infrastructure, jobs, and innovation—instead, it’s slipping through the cracks.
And this is the part most people miss: devolution isn’t just about political power; it’s about unlocking access to multi-million-pound public funding opportunities and bolstering investor confidence. Without it, the region risks being left behind in the national economic race. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has made it clear: their goal is for all of England to benefit from devolved powers through Strategic Authorities. But in the South Midlands, progress has been anything but strategic.
Talks to create a South Midlands combined authority have hit a wall. Luton and Milton Keynes councils have staunchly opposed including Northamptonshire in the grouping, creating a rift instead of the unity needed to move forward. Is this opposition justified, or are short-term political interests overshadowing long-term economic gains? It’s a question worth debating.
Longhurst argues that the focus should shift to a broader, economically driven approach. “We’re talking to government and regional partners to explore alternatives,” he said. He also highlighted the region’s undersold potential, pointing out that Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire are home to critical businesses across diverse sectors—from manufacturing to tech—yet their contributions are often overlooked.
The government’s preferred model for devolution involves combined authorities led by elected mayors, giving regions control over key issues like housing and transport. But without consensus, the South Midlands remains stuck in limbo. The Ministry has promised to outline next steps for areas outside the Devolution Priority Programme, urging regions like Northamptonshire to engage. But will it be enough?
Here’s the burning question: Can the South Midlands set aside differences and seize its economic destiny, or will internal divisions continue to cost it millions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation the region can’t afford to ignore.
