COUNCIL leaders in Gwent have welcomed an agreement by ten councils in the South-East region to work together to develop a combined authority that could make key decisions on economic development, transport and planning.

The development of a combined authority, made up of Torfaen, Blaenau Gwent , Monmouthshire, Caerphilly, Newport, Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taff and the Vale of Glamorgan, means important strategic decisions can be made at a regional level.

Speaking on behalf of all council leaders in South-East Wales, Councillor Bob Wellington, CBE, leader of Torfaen and the Welsh Local Government Association, said: “The debate on the form and function of local government is moving rapidly in Wales, and this agreement demonstrates how local councils are exploring innovative new ways of doing business that will offer communities a settled and lasting outcome that is fit for purpose now and into the future.”

Cllr Wellington said the new councils will still need to work closely together to improve the effectiveness of public services.

He added: “It will create a clear decision making structure that will allow council’s to deliver at a strategic regional level, while also ensuring local communities retain a strong role in shaping their sense of place and the services they receive.”

Cllr Bob Bright, leader of Newport City Council said the council supports the proposal in principle.

Caerphilly Borough Council’s leader, Keith Reynolds echoed his comments but called for further detailed discussions to ensure that the proposal will bring benefits to the individual authorities involved.

Monmouthshire council’s leader, Cllr Peter Fox welcomed the move.

He said: “This absolutely makes sense. It allows us to build on the excellent working relationships that already exist between the ten authorities but will take things to a new level.”

The councils will now look to discuss the proposal further with Welsh Government and other stakeholders.