Combined authorities
The power to create combined authorities was introduced in the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009.
Combined authorities are legal structures that can be created by two or more local authorities in England to undertake joint functions. They are created by the Secretary of State at the request of the local authorities following a review process. The Secretary of State must consult the authorities, and must be satisfied that the combined authority will contribute to economic development and transport policy.
Authorities may also be removed from the combined authority, or the combined authority may be abolished by statutory instrument.
Combined authorities must include membership from all local authorities in its area, they cannot include part of a county council area or any enclaves.
Combined authorities can take on transport and economic development functions. The membership and functions of combined authorities is specified in the order that creates them. They also have a general power of competence introduced by the Localism Act 2011 which allows the transfer of public functions to ‘permitted bodies’.
Existing combined authorities include; the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, West Yorkshire, Sheffield and Liverpool and the North-East combined authority.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Government departments' responsibility for construction.
- Local planning authority.
- Localism act.
- Planning authority.
- Metropolitan counties.
- Uk.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.