DORSET Council is in talks with Somerset and Wiltshire councils to join forces to create a “Heart of Wessex” region. 

The three local authorities will submit expressions of interest in devolution, in response to a request from the government, seeking to “unlock greater powers and resources for the area”. 

It’s said the submission for devolution to the Heart of Wessex represents a “strategic step towards addressing local aspirations and aligning with the government's devolution agenda”. 

Each of the three council leaders have acknowledged the varying goals and priorities for their separate counties but believe there are “important synergies to explore under one umbrella”.  

In a joint statement, the leaders of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils, Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans and Cllr Richard Clewer, said discussions have been “constructive”. 

Discussions included BCP Council, but while it isn’t going to be part of the Heart of Wessex, the Dorset and the other councils are open to BCP joining. 

The statement said: “Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils are keen to explore how together they may better meet residents’ needs and align with the government's vision for devolution.  

“Each council will be submitting its own expression of interest this week but are all agreed that we wish to explore the Heart of Wessex concept and work together moving forwards. 

“Discussions to date have also included BCP Council and Swindon Borough Council. Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils remain open to the possibility of working with these councils across the Wessex region. 

“Clearer guidance is now needed from the government on how it intends to complete the devolution process in full, providing more details on the desired minimum population for any devolution footprint. 

“Clarity on the functions to be devolved would also help refine our approach and whilst we are open to exploring the right decision-making framework, at this time we don’t think a mayoral system would be right for our communities. 

“Once formal proposals have been agreed with central government these will be communicated with our residents and any options will be consulted on before being taken forward.” 

Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire councils remain open to amending their expressions of interest as further details of the English Devolution Bill emerge and will continue their own discussions with councils across the Wessex region.