NEW powers have been given to the region to help with major regeneration projects.

The Tees Valley Combined Authority has become the first authority outside London to be able to create Mayoral Development Corporations - locally-accountable bodies which will look to accelerate economic growth by supporting the development of key sites.

The new legislation will give the Tees Valley Mayor, to be elected on May 4, responsibility for regeneration work in the region.

The new powers include the responsibility for infrastructure, to attract new businesses, and to coordinate land ownership.

A consultation concluded last Friday (March 10) over the creation of South Tees Development Corporation, to help build on opportunities arising from of an area of 4,300 acres, which includes the site of the former SSI steelworks in Redcar.

The Tees Valley is the first area outside Greater London to benefit from these powers, which have previously only been available to the London 2012 Legacy Development Corporation and the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation – both created by the Mayor of London.

Cllr Sue Jeffrey, leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council, said the deal allows the region to secure the “huge opportunities” available in the south Tees area.

“Having seen first-hand the devastating impact of the closure of the Redcar steelworks, I understand the importance of using every opportunity possible to secure the new, good quality jobs our region needs,” she said.

“These new powers, secured by the Tees Valley Combined Authority through our devolution deal, allow us to create a powerful new development body."

Andrew Percy, Northern Powerhouse Minister, said: “I’d like to congratulate the Tees Valley for having the vision to establish this far-reaching new deal.

“These new powers that we’re devolving straight from Whitehall to the Tees Valley are a crucial step to improve economic growth and regeneration in the area.

“It’s all part of our plan to give the region direct control over its future, with local people having the opportunity to vote for a brand new mayor on May 4.”

l The mayoral candidates are: Sue Jeffrey (Labour), Ben Houchen (Conservative), Chris Foote Wood (Lib Dems), John Tennant (Ukip), John Tait (North-East Party).