The government has officially opened applications for Foundation Strategic Authorities (FSAs), a flagship initiative designed to grant non-mayoral regions access to devolved powers spanning transport, employment, housing, the environment, and healthcare.

This morning, Miatta Fahnbulleh, the Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities, invited all English areas currently lacking a devolution agreement to submit expressions of interest. These applications are set for review starting 20th March. 

Under the framework established by the English Devolution White Paper, local authorities can transition into Mayoral Strategic Authorities or opt for the FSA model. The latter provides a pathway for areas without a mayor to unlock more powers, ensuring that the benefits of devolution reach a broader geographic footprint. Fahnbulleh emphasised that this new wave of FSAs is intended to maximise accessibility to devolution, while reaffirming the government’s primary commitment to the mayoral model. 

This rollout coincides with a non-statutory consultation on the geographies for Spatial Development Strategies. The government maintains that strategic planning is most effective when conducted over devolution geographies; consequently, officials intend to work closely with local leaders to ensure that the boundaries for FSAs and Spatial Development Strategies are aligned wherever possible.

However, the proposal has met with some skepticism regarding its scope and speed. The County Councils Network (CCN) have characterised the initiative as a “watered-down” version of the more ambitious goals originally outlined in the White Paper. There are concerns that this creates a “two-speed” devolution system, where non-urban county areas lag behind their metropolitan counterparts.

Without a clear timeline for those ready to transition to full mayoral status, there is a risk that these areas will be limited in their ability to drive economic growth and productivity. Ultimately, the CCN suggests that the success of these new strategic authorities may depend on whether the government empowers strong unitary councils as their foundation.