At the start of a new chapter for the West of England, and at its regional authority, Mayor Helen Godwin today spoke at an all-staff meeting.
The new Mayor of the West of England thanked officers for such a warm welcome since taking office last week, acknowledged recent challenging recent history, and reflected on her first week in office.
Echoing the energy and enthusiasm of staff – and the positive start with local council leaders in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire – Helen reassured everyone that her door is always open. She set out her plans to be around and active, visible and accessible, and the need to better tell our region’s story.
Taking questions, the new Mayor emphasised the need to work closely with local councils, the importance of the voluntary and community sector, and the need to work with residents and remember that it’s their money that we’re investing. Helen shared her vision for her convening power as mayor, to connect schools and employers to prioritise pathways for young people into the tens of thousands of new jobs coming to the region through major investment and regeneration including at Bristol Temple Quarter and Brabazon.
Helen also spoke of her love for the West Country and the need to preserve and restore nature while delivering economic growth through new jobs and new homes. She also reaffirmed her commitment to tackling climate change while supporting and reflecting the communities who the Mayoral Combined Authority is here to serve.
The new Mayor also outlined the strong relationships being built with key partners, including government ministers and investors. With the English Devolution Bill coming before Parliament this summer, Helen also highlighted the need to secure further powers and funding from Westminster – including through an integrated funding settlement like those already awarded to larger combined authorities in Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.
Speaking following the meeting, Helen Godwin, the new Mayor of the West of England, said:
“At the start of a new chapter for the West of England, I was delighted to meet with staff at the Mayoral Combined Authority this afternoon.
“Just over a week after taking office, and having met with government ministers, investors, and First Bus, I wanted to hear from officers and continue to hit the ground running. My door will always be open.
“Working with local councils, it’s time to show people across the West of England what we can really do – so that people in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, and South Gloucestershire, can see, feel, and trust the difference that we’ll make together.”
