Bucks Lib Dems say the county will be left behind if not involved in devolution deal

It comes as neighbouring authorities pursue a devolution deal.

Buckinghamshire’s council leader Steven Broadbent has rejected the accusations that the county is being left behind, saying claims the county was “sitting on the sidelines” were “simply wrong”, insisting the authority was working with government to secure benefits for residents.

The county’s Liberal Democrats have warned Bucks risks missing out on investment and influence if a proposed Thames Valley Mayoral Strategic Authority goes ahead without it.

The row comes after leaders across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Swindon submitted a letter supporting a mayoral authority on October 26.

The proposal still requires government approval and funding.

The proposed mayoral authority would bring councils together under an elected mayor and is expected to have responsibilities in areas such as transport, skills and economic development.

Cllr Susan Morgan, leader of the Buckinghamshire Liberal Democrat Group, accused the Conservative administration of failing to explain its devolution strategy.

She said: “Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Swindon would get new powers, new funding and a stronger voice. Buckinghamshire would be left behind. Residents deserve to know how that is in Buckinghamshire’s interests.”

The group says ministers intend to proceed without Buckinghamshire and will not wait for the county to join.

However, the council’s press office said no government announcement had yet been made.

Cllr Morgan called for clarity over the administration’s alternative plans, asking: “What funding could Buckinghamshire miss out on? What influence could Buckinghamshire lose? What route back in could be available in future, if at all?”

The Lib Dems are seeking an urgent briefing for all councillors and cross-party discussions about the county’s future devolution options.

Responding, Cllr Broadbent said: “Suggestions that Buckinghamshire is ‘sitting on the sidelines’ are simply wrong. Our focus, first and foremost, is on ensuring that any decisions relating to devolution bring genuine meaningful benefits for Buckinghamshire residents, businesses and communities.”

He said the council had actively engaged with government, pointing to Buckinghamshire’s existing Level 2 Devolution Deal.

He added: “We continue to liaise constructively with Government within the devolution framework, including seeking meetings with relevant ministers, while ensuring Buckinghamshire’s interests remain at the forefront of any discussions.”

His response did not specify whether Buckinghamshire would seek to join the proposed Thames Valley authority or set out an alternative arrangement.