A key advantage of a single institution, such as the MCA model, across a functional economic geography is its joint governance arrangements for key growth levers. These include - 

  • transport
  • skills
  • economic development
  • regeneration

which allow for strategic prioritisation across its area and integrated policy development. A directly elected mayor provides -

  • greater leadership
  • local accountability
  • decision-making power, working in partnership with the combined authority and constituent councils