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28
Sept 2023
Harrogate man to lead set-up of North Yorkshire combined authority
A former Harrogate High School student has been appointed to lead the set-up of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
James Farrar, who grew up in Huby, will take up the position as interim director for transition.
Mr Farrar is is currently chief operating officer of the York & North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, a public-private partnership that drives economic growth.
The combined authority is due to be established this year but will begin operating in May.
An order will be laid before parliament in the autumn, which will include provisions for powers and funding tied to a devolution deal as well as paving the way for the creation of the authority.
The combined authority, which will be overseen by a directly election mayor, is expected to have powers to make decisions on matters such as economic development and transport.
Mr Farrar said:
Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, said:
Read more:
- Conservatives select highways councillor Keane Duncan to stand for North Yorkshire mayor
- Explained: What is North Yorkshire’s combined authority?
The proposed devolution deal includes a £7 million investment to drive green economic growth towards the ambition of York and North Yorkshire becoming the country’s first carbon negative region.
There is also proposed investment of up to £2.65 million to deliver affordable low-carbon housing, and £13 million for the building of new homes on brownfield land during 2023/24 and 2024/25.
The elected mayor will make decisions on investments in strategic priorities such as for transport, housing, and adult education.
The mayor will also have responsibilities for community safety and strategic responsibility for the totality of policing, fire and crime for York and North Yorkshire.
They will appoint a deputy mayor to carry out many of the powers and duties of the role currently known as police, fire and crime commissioner.
An election for the mayor will be held in May 2024.
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