We are also grateful to those who have shared their submission which we will use for reference purposes going forward.

For the majority of the questions we neither agreed nor disagreed but gave more detail around our thoughts in relation to the sector generally.

Q1 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that establishing a Mayoral Combined Authority over the proposed geography will deliver benefits to the area - we noted there were some potential benefits but the lack of information and the need for careful integration of local councils' and parish meeting roles should be significant considerations.  We highlighted that our sector should be considered as key stakeholders in future strategic planning to ensure their roles and contributions are respected and integrated.  We recognised a shared strategic authority presented an opportunity to be more ambitious and have a stronger collective voice and influence government decisions more effectively.  Also that this could lead to better utilisation of additional powers and funding that might become available. 

We also took the opportunity to mention that whilst local government re-organisation is not formally part of the creation of the Mayoral Combined Authority with this happening at the same time it is causing confusion and some concern, including for some, that there is a replacement of a closer level of government with a more distant one. 

Q2 - to what extend do you agree or disagree with the proposed governance arrangements for the Mayoral Combined Authority - we highlighted several important concerns and opportunities.  In particular around the risks that some devolved powers might move further away from local communities potentially adding an extra layer of bureaucracy and a possible disconnect between decision-makers and the communities they serve.  We highlighted as an organisation, alongside our colleagues in Norfolk, combined, we support and represent almost 1,000 town and parish councils and parish meetings.  Often referred to as the first tier (grass roots) of local government, they play a crucial role in supporting local communities with an "on the ground" presence enabling them to understand local issues, foster community spirit and ensure voices are heard.  The Suffolk Association of Local Councils would like a representative role, potentially shared with our Norfolk colleagues, to assist with the flow of information, engagement and involvement in strategic planning especially in relation to local economy, national infrastructure projects, environmental protection, community safety, health and wellbeing and public transport.  Preservation of local decision-making is critical and we would like to see governance models include robust mechanisms in this regard.

Q3 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that working across the proposed geography through the Mayoral Combined Authority will support the economy of the area - we highlighted that initiatives must include working with local communities and their democratic representatives.  Town and parish councils and parish meetings play an important role and understand local issues.  As an example, Suffolk is experiencing a significant number of major infrastructure projects including energy developments and transport upgrades as well as much needed digital connectivity improvements.  Whilst these projects are vital for regional and national growth, they often disproportionately impact specific rural areas leading to concerns about disruption, environmental effects and changes to local character.  A new authority presents an opportunity to change this.

Q4 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that working across the proposed geography through the Mayoral Combined Authority will improve social outcomes in the area - we recognised the risks around distance to people due to the size of the area and advocate to include the width and depth of existing local initiatives already making a difference, many of which are supported by town and parish councils and parish meetings. 

Q5 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that working across the proposed geography through a Mayoral Combined Authority will improve local government services in the area, we focussed on the degree and pace of change again and the fact that the impact is still unknown in relation to Local Government Re-organisation. Communities are concerned that these proposals run the risk of moving decision-making processes further away from the electorate and users of services. As a representative organisation we are seeking opportunities for collaboration having researched and analysed what has worked well in other areas. It was also highlighted that many town and parish councils and parish meetings are already delivering and supporting local services. Q6 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that working across the proposed geography through a Mayoral Combined Authority will improve the local natural environment and overall national environment - we responded, that protecting the local environment is very important for town and parish councils and parish meetings with many examples of local initiatives contributing to climate targets. We agree with the points made in the open letter from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust dated 3rd March 2025. Several initiatives across Norfolk and Suffolk have been successful and an opportunity exists to support and enhance these through economies of scale and attracting more investment.
Q7 - to what extent do you agree or disagree that working across the proposed geography through the Mayoral Combined Authority will support the interests and needs of local communities and reflect local identities - we responded that many of our members were concerned about the risk of losing a close connection with local communities and therefore the understanding of individual identities.  We wanted the opportunity to be part of the governance arrangements and develop suitable communication and engagement frameworks as part of new ways of working.