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Devolution timeline

View the key milestones to set up the Norfolk and Suffolk Strategic Mayoral Authority (MSA).

This timeline focuses on devolution. For information about Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) visit Future Norfolk or Future Suffolk. 

The devolution journey

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  1. The Government published the English Devolution White Paper, This set out plans for wider devolution across England, and encouraged local government reorganisation alongside devolution. 

  2. Norfolk and Suffolk were included in the Government's Devolution Priority Programme (DPP). 

  3. The Government consulted on proposals for a Norfolk and Suffolk Mayoral Stratgic Authority (MSA). 

  4. Suffolk County Council and Norfolk County Council cabinets voted in favour of progressing devolution proposals and creating the MSA covering both counties. 

  5. The Government delayed the planned mayoral election from May 2026 to May 2028 due to councils also working on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). 

  6. Norfolk and Suffolk County Council’s Cabinets reconsent to new Statutory Instruments. This meant secondary legislation could be passed by the Government to legally enact the establishment of the new MSA.

  7. The Statutory Instrument reaches Royal assent, the Norfolk and Suffolk MSA is established and due to hold its first meeting. 

  8. Statutory Instruments for the transfer of the Office for Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) functions and Fire and Rescue Services should be laid.

  9. The following will be transferred to the Norfolk and Suffolk MSA: 

    • Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) functions
    • Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service governance
    • Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service governance

    This is subject to separate secondary legislation (Statutory Instruments) being laid.

  10. The inaugural election for the Norfolk and Suffolk Mayor.