Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority Launches with New CEO

Former Homes England boss Nick Walkley takes the helm as the new authority aims to drive growth and development in the region.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:54am

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A serene, nostalgic painting depicting a government building or political office space, with warm lighting and deep shadows creating a contemplative atmosphere, symbolizing the shift in power and community-driven approach of the new combined authority.The launch of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority signals a new era of local empowerment and decentralized decision-making in the UK.Chicago Today

The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority has officially launched, empowering local leaders to make decisions on transport, skills, and investment. Former Homes England boss Nick Walkley has been appointed as the interim CEO, and the authority's first meeting is scheduled for April. This move follows a unanimous vote in September 2025, when the three local councils approved the plans to join the government's devolution priority program.

Why it matters

The creation of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority represents a significant shift in power, allowing the region to have a stronger voice and more control over its own future. With a £650 million investment fund set aside for the next 30 years, the authority is poised to drive growth, improve infrastructure, and create better job opportunities for local residents.

The details

The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority was formed after the government added the region to its devolution priority program in February 2025. The three local councils - Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, and Warrington - unanimously approved the plans in September 2025. As part of the deal, the authority will have the power to make decisions on key issues such as transport, skills, and investment.

  • The government added Cheshire and Warrington to its devolution priority program in February 2025.
  • The three local councils unanimously approved the plans in September 2025.
  • The Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority's first meeting is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Nick Walkley

The former boss of Homes England, who has been appointed as the interim CEO of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority.

Louise Gittens

The leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, who has described the creation of the combined authority as a "landmark moment" and a "vital step" in the area's devolution journey.

Miatta Fahnbulleh

The devolution minister, who has described the launch of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority as a "milestone" in the government's mission to decentralize power from Westminster.

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What they’re saying

“By working collaboratively with neighboring mayors and having a stronger presence on the national stage, Cheshire and Warrington is perfectly positioned to deliver improved job prospects, enhanced transport infrastructure, and real opportunities for its residents.”

— Miatta Fahnbulleh, Devolution Minister

“This is a landmark moment for Cheshire and Warrington, and a vital step in our devolution journey.”

— Louise Gittens, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The creation of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority represents a significant shift in power, allowing the region to have a stronger voice and more control over its own future. With a substantial investment fund and the ability to make decisions on key issues, the authority is poised to drive growth, improve infrastructure, and create better job opportunities for local residents, empowering the community and decentralizing power from Westminster.