Hull and East Riding councils should join to boost the region’s economy, according to commission.
A report, published by the independent Hull Commission, recommends that the two councils should become one in order to benefit from the Government’s devolution agenda.
The commission, made up of nine business figures, academics and public sector professionals, was tasked 18 months ago by the city council to investigate whether the region’s clearly delineated border restricted the regeneration of the city and the wider sub-region.
They were also asked to look into possible future options for improving administrative arrangements in the northeastern area.
The Hull Commission argued that a proposed West Yorkshire combined authority would not work and, instead, there should be a combined authority based on the Humber and the unification of Hull and East Riding.
Cllr Stephen Brady, leader of Hull City Council, welcomed the report and said that his council will consider the recommendations carefully.
‘Hull already works very well with the East Riding in many areas and this has helped to secure significant benefits in terms of inward investment and jobs.’
He continued: ‘We are now beginning to strengthen this coordinated approach and I believe that both councils are now committed to working together more closely on a wider range of issues. As this moves forward, I fully endorse the idea of developing a set of shared values that will underpin and demonstrate the strength of our partnership.’
