THE LEADER of Hampshire County Council has called for unity among local councils following the recent disputes about devolution and local government in the county.

Councillor Roy Perry’s call comes after two years of debate and argument over how best devolution could be implemented in Hampshire.

Any agreed devolution deal could see decisions made in Hampshire on how to spend millions of pounds, rather than having them made by government, or government agencies.

The two most recent bids for devolved powers are from the Solent councils and councils in and around Basingstoke and Winchester.

If successful, these deals would see each group of councils get money directly from government for government managed and funded services, such as road repairs.

Cllr Perry says he believes the bids make no economic sense and that Hampshire councils should take a fresh look at the best way to approach devolution.

He said: “I am saying it is high time we came back together in a constructive way, put our recent differences behind us, and focussed on the needs of all our residents in difficult times.

“So I am calling on my fellow leaders to call a halt, knowing that nothing will now be forthcoming from Central Government for the time being at least, and let us get back around the table in the interests of all of our communities.”

When devolution for Hampshire was first suggested, East Hampshire District Council was part of an initial county wide bid that involved all local councils.

However that bid didn’t get of the ground, and EHDC isn’t actively involved in any devolution bids, although if the Solent one goes ahead and is successful it’s understood EHDC may be invited to join the group.

A decision by government on the Solent devolution proposal is expected before the summer.