[20 September 2024]

Green light for devolution deal

Aura welcomes the news that the proposed devolution for Hull, East Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire has been signed off by Government.

The deal which was first announced in November 2023 will give local Council leaders the power to make decisions in areas such as transport, adult education and housing, boosting economic growth and opportunity for the region.

The proposed devolution deal will see powers and funding of £400million devolved to a new combined authority, overseen by a directly elected mayor who will represent the area in a new relationship with the Government. Here at the Aura Innovation Centre we understand how vital it is for businesses to access funding opportunities having supported over 780 Humber businesses with funding and created over 670 research and innovation projects on the back of the funding received.

“The devolution deal marks a significant milestone in attracting substantial investment to our city, and it will undoubtedly be welcomed by the business community,” said Sarah Clark, Acting Director of Aura. “The new funding opportunities will enable us to continue supporting businesses in enhancing their competitiveness and driving productivity through innovation and growth.”

The University of Hull has a strong track record for collaboration in the region, with the Aura Innovation Centre being at the forefront through our work with industry and business. The University has been actively engaged in the proposed devolution deal and will continue to work closely with the future Mayor, industry partners and the community to address major social, economic and environmental issues, including cancer care, wound healing, clean energy, carbon capture and flood resilience. As the only higher education institution in Hull and East Yorkshire, the University is proud of it’s role in the educational, social, economic and cultural development of our unique city and region.

The University of Hull is proud to have served Hull and East Yorkshire for approaching 100 years and as the region comes together to create an ambitious future vision for growth, we look forward to working as a trusted partner in this shared endeavour.