THE North-East public wants more powers devolved to the region, a council leader has claimed.

Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council and chair of the North East Combined Authority (Neca), said consultation had shown the people of the North-East “strongly believe” in devolution to the region.

His comments came after more than 300 people had their say on devolution proposals drawn up by Neca, which include the inter-council body getting powers over transport, skills and economic development, at a series of public meetings in March.

“The message we heard loud and clear was that people want key decisions about our economy, our growth and our prosperity to be made here by people with local knowledge and understanding,” Councillor Henig said.

A report analysing public feedback will be discussed by Neca leaders next Tuesday (June 16) and more detailed proposals will be put to the Government in coming weeks.

The Government says it is committed to regional regeneration through its Northern Powerhouse idea and has appointed Stockton South MP James Wharton to lead the initiative. It remains unclear, however, whether accepting a regionwide elected mayor will be a precondition for Whitehall ceding more decision making.