Elections to choose a ‘Heart of Wessex’ mayor could be held in May 2026 after Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire councillors backed devolution proposals. The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is looking to devolve more decision-making powers to local government, encouraging councils to team up to form mayoral strategic authorities.
The leaders of Dorset Council, Somerset Council and Wiltshire Council have submitted a joint letter to the government, confirming their desire to be part of the first new authorities to be created under the devolution priority programme. If the government honours this request, elections could be held in less than 18 months to elect a mayor to head up the new authority – though all three councils would still exist and keep their decision-making powers.
In a joint statement, Dorset Council leader Nick Ireland, Somerset Council leader Bill Revans and Wiltshire Council leader Richard Clewer said: “We are pleased to confirm that we have submitted a letter to the government showing our collective support for being considered as part of its devolution priority programme. The government wishes to progress devolution at pace, and we remain committed to being at the forefront of transformation in local government.
“Our Wessex proposal aligns well with the aims of the English devolution white paper, encompassing a population of approximately 1.5 million, with scope for further growth should Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, Swindon Borough Council and North Somerset Council join the partnership. This proposal is not a merger of the three councils.
“Each council will remain independent, continuing to serve its local communities as individual authorities. We believe this scale of devolution ensures clear, accountable leadership to drive economic growth, improve public services, and invest in vital infrastructure.
“This model will see additional powers and funding handed down from central government, unlocking significant opportunities and benefits for our residents and businesses. Wessex is well-placed to support the government’s growth priorities, particularly in clean energy, defence, digital technologies, life sciences, and tourism.
“We are committed to creating a Wessex Mayoral Strategic Authority and are determined to deliver the benefits of devolution through effective partnership working and our shared ambition to deliver the best outcomes for residents, businesses and visitors. We remain open to further discussions with other councils about potentially expanding the partnership, should they wish to consider joining Wessex in the future. We will continue to work closely with the government to progress the Wessex proposal.”
Should Wessex join the Devolution Priority Programme, in the coming months the government will undertake a public consultation as part of meeting the statutory tests.
Wiltshire Council headquarters on Bythesea Road in Trowbridge
(Image: Google Maps)
If approved, mayoral elections would take place in May 2026 – one year after Wiltshire residents go to the polls to elect their local councillors.
The next local elections for Somerset Council (on the soon-to-be-revised electoral boundaries) will be held in May 2027, while the next local elections for Dorset may not take place until May 2029.
Join Somerset Live’s WhatsApp community for top stories and breaking news sent directly to your phone
Somerset Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.
Through the app, we’ll send the latest breaking news, top stories, exclusives and much more straight to your phone.
To join our community you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Somerset Live team.
We also treat community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out at any time you like.
To leave our community, click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Click here to join our WhatsApp community.