Councillor Gullis stated his consistent support for genuine devolution, believing the proposed authority has the potential to bring decision-making closer to the communities it serves. He highlighted that such a body could be a 'real game-changer' for the area, attracting investment, creating better-paid jobs, improving skills and apprenticeships, and delivering a more integrated public transport network.
However, he cautioned that 'the devil will be in the detail'. For devolution to succeed, Councillor Gullis stressed that real powers and control must be transferred from Westminster to Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, supported by adequate funding. He warned against creating another layer of bureaucracy without the necessary powers or resources, and against a two-tier mayoral system where newer authorities are disadvantaged compared to established ones.
He reiterated his previous argument that a wider authority incorporating Shropshire and Telford could offer greater economic potential, but affirmed his priority remains securing the best outcome for the residents of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Councillor Gullis also expressed hope that this announcement signals the end of the Government's 'unwanted, unloved and unnecessary local government reorganisation proposals'. He contrasted devolution's potential to transform decision-making and empower communities with the disruptive nature of council reorganisation, which he believes threatens accountability and distracts from resident priorities.
His message to the Prime Minister is that devolution must be more than symbolic, urging the transfer of real decision-making powers and the necessary funding to make a tangible difference in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
