The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (Election of Mayor and Functions) Order 2021 was formally made on 29 January 2021. This Order embeds the Devolution Deal that was consulted on publicly last year. The Order sets out in regulations the powers, functions and election of the Mayor. Under the order certain powers previously exercised by Homes England are transferred to the Mayor. The Mayor also has new powers over planning, including the ability to make development corporations, and skills and training.
Specifically, the Combined Authority may exercise certain specified planning powers to:
(a) improve the supply and quality of housing;
(b) secure the regeneration or development of land or infrastructure;
(c) support in other ways the creation, regeneration or development of communities or their continued well-being; and
(d) contribute to the achievement of sustainable development and good design, with a view to meeting the needs of people.
Mayoral elections will follow on 6 May 2021. The first term of office will run for three years with the next election in 2024.