PLANS to devolve more power from Westminster to Cheshire and Warrington are being backed by Labour MPs in the area.

The new Labour Government is keen to move decision-making closer to communities, with the additional aim of boosting economic growth.

A meeting to explore a possible devolution deal was recently held between local government minister Jim McMahon MP and representatives from Cheshire West, Cheshire East and Warrington councils, alongside Enterprise Cheshire and Warrington.

Now a supportive pro-devolution letter has been sent to deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner signed by Runcorn and Helsby MP Mike Amesbury, Mid Cheshire MP Andrew Cooper, Macclesfield MP Tim Roca, Warrington South MP Sarah Hall, Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols, Congleton MP Sarah Russell and Crewe and Nantwich MP Connor Naismith.

It reads: “The devolution of power is strongly supported by Cheshire’s MPs, and we are eager to collaborate with the Labour Government and Cheshire’s local government leaders to make this a reality.”

But the MPs stress: “We firmly believe any devolution plans should be driven by grassroots opinion, ensuring the voice of the people shapes our future.”

The letter outlines that Cheshire and Warrington is home to nearly one million residents and has an economy worth approximately £35 billion.

There is a suggestion Ms Rayner should take up an invitation from Cheshire West and Chester Council leader Cllr Louise Gittins to visit the subregion and discover the ‘opportunities’ presented by devolution.

The MPs explain: “We have a proven track record of successful collaboration between local authorities and the private sector, working towards our vision of being the healthiest, most sustainable, inclusive, and growing economy in the UK.”

And their letter adds: “To maximise the potential of local devolution, we need comprehensive powers that allow for collaboration across key areas like transport, adult education and skills, health and social care, housing and planning.

“This will enable our region to thrive and provide a platform to speak with one voice at the national level.”

The MPs say the merits of different governance models, including an elected mayor, are ‘up for discussion’ but emphasise the need for a strong devolution deal to bring ‘significant benefits’ for residents.

Their letter to Ms Rayner concludes: “We are poised to support your mission to stimulate economic growth and look forward to discussing how we can reset our relationship with Whitehall to deliver sustainable and inclusive growth.”