The Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority was formally established on 5 June 2026 following Parliamentary approval of its statutory instrument.

The organisation brings together the leaders of Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council and the Isle of Wight Council for strategic decisions across the region. Its stated priorities include transport, housing, skills, investment and economic growth.

This does not replace the existing councils or immediately change day-to-day services. The authority is expected to adopt its constitution and governance arrangements at an inaugural meeting in July 2026. A directly elected regional mayor is expected from May 2028.

Evidence

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  1. Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority formally established — Hampshire County Council
  2. Working together for Hampshire and the Solent — Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority