The Government’s Sub-National Review will significantly change how regional governance will work in the future.

The main issues that impact on CPRE in the region are -

1. The abolition of the Regional Assembly and planning powers going to Advantage West Midlands.

We are concerned that because of its current, more limited economic development brief, Advantage West Midlands does not have the same track record in engaging with CPRE and other partners in the decision-making process as the Assembly. Nor does the SNR put adequate weight, in our view, on participation from external stakeholders. We will be seeking to ensure the fullest participation in the development of key regional policies.

2. The introduction of a Single Integrated Regional Strategy to replace the current Regional Spatial Strategy and Regional Economic Strategy, and its specifically business led approach.

While there is a case for bringing together these two core strategies we believe it is important that environmental and social issues are given adequate weight in the new strategy. We believe it is equally important that CPRE and other interested parties are fully engaged in this process, not just as external consultees, and that the detailed policies are tested at a Public Examination.

3. The introduction of a Leaders Forum of local authorities to interact with Advantage West Midlands, as opposed to the current Planning Partnership which is part of the Regional Assembly.

The role of Local Government in developing and delivering the Integrated Regional Strategy will be crucial and CPRE will want to ensure we are able to fully engage with them on this process.

A Government consultation is currently underway as to how this would work, however much of the detail will be decided at Regional level. A transitional board is working on the proposals for the West Midlands and CPRE is seeking to ensure it maximizes its influence on how this is achieved, working closely with partners in WMRSF and other Assembly non-local authority stakeholders.

As well as seeking to maximize CPRE’s influence we will be supporting strong voluntary sector and environmental forums to ensure wider participation. This will need both political will and funding from the key players in the new regime.

28.04.08