Combined Authority must be Right for Rugby

Cllr Michael Stokes was responding to reports from Birmingham and the Black Country that local authorities in these areas will cooperate to create a Combined Authority to deliver certain responsibilities together. The proposed authority would cover a substantial part of the urban area of the West Midlands.

He said: “Joining, or not joining, a combined authority could have profound implications for the prosperity of Rugby’s residents and businesses, both now and in the future. It is essential that we understand those implications before making any decision, and that we do what’s right for Rugby.

“I have been in discussions with the Leader of Coventry City Council, who now has an interesting decision to make. I have expressed my support for Coventry remaining outside of the proposed Combined Authority for Birmingham and continuing to work closely with partners in Rugby and Warwickshire.

“Together we form a strong and geographically sensible partnership and I know that we can build on this relationship.

“The door remains open for any future discussions that may be needed, but I will always have Rugby’s best interests in mind.”