From April 2026, the Combined Authority will receive the bulk of its funding in an Integrated Settlement from Government, bringing greater powers and flexibility.

To celebrate this new stage of devolution, we’re looking at what devolution has achieved in all six of the Combined Authority’s constituent local authorities, beginning with St Helens.

Leader of St Helens Council, Cllr Anthony Burns describes why it is important for the borough.

“People often ask me what devolution is and about being part of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

“Well, since 2017, we’ve been at the heart of the Combined Authority, which uses powers and funding devolved to the region from Government to grow our economy so that all our residents feel the benefit.

“That’s led to us securing more than £300 million to drive growth and regeneration in our borough.

“We’ve already seen improvements to public transport and active travel and work is under way on a new £35m transport interchange in the heart of St Helens.

“And there’s a new station at Carr Mill to look forward to, along with new routes and improved services as buses are brought back under public control this Autumn.

“We are home to one of the Liverpool City Region Freeport’s three tax sites, at the former Parkside Colliery, and have been backed by nearly £40m to build a new road connecting it to the M6 – which will create thousands of jobs.

“A £9m investment has seen Glass Futures become a global centre of excellence for decarbonising energy-intensive industries.

“And more than £11m is creating new homes on previously derelict sites.

“Being part of the Combined Authority also opens the door to major skills programmes, apprenticeships, and support for local businesses — helping our residents step into high growth careers and giving employers the talent they need to thrive.

“But more than that, being part of a City Region with real devolved powers gives us a seat at the table for major decisions and a louder voice in the world. And in my role as Cabinet Member for Net Zero, that gives St Helens a major say in every decision the Combined Authority takes.

“We’re playing a key role in shaping long term plans and securing major investment that lifts ambition, boosts growth, raises living standards and delivers for every community across St Helens.”