A DEVOLUTION deal for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight came a step closer after council leaders and MPs made their case in parliament.

Eleven MPs and authority leaders, including Margaret Paren from the South Downs National Park Authority, leader of Hampshire County Council Cllr Roy Perry and Winchester City Council leader Cllr Stephen Godfrey, made the trip to Westminster to meet parliamentary representatives. They reported that they received a very positive reception to their explanations of the impact devolution proposals would have.

The ambitious nature of the devolution bid and the number of partners involved mean it could become a blueprint for cities and regions across the country to follow. It has received the support of Hampshire Constabulary and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The proposal focuses around four key themes: boosting business and skills for work, accelerating housing delivery, investing in infrastructure, and transforming public services.

Councillors and officers behind the plan believe it will lead to more efficient local planning, further expansion of broadband, improved transport connections, higher employment and better wages.