Wessex devolution and the Budget: business must be at the heart of both

28 October 2026

Responding to today’s Autumn Budget, Somerset Chamber Managing Director, David Crew, said:

“Confirmation in today’s Budget that Wessex is among the areas set to secure a new Mayoral Strategic Authority marks a significant moment for Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire. As Somerset Chamber helped launch the Wessex Chamber Alliance earlier this week, alongside our colleagues at Business West and Dorset Chamber, the timing could hardly be more important.

“The Government’s decision to advance devolution across Wessex reinforces why we have been calling for business to have a formal seat at the table from the very beginning of this process.

“Many businesses will welcome the fact that further tax burdens were avoided in today’s Budget. The reduction or removal of business rates for many firms in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will provide valuable support, while additional backing for innovation, AI and business finance should help create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and growing companies.

“However, for many businesses across Somerset, this is unlikely to be a Budget that fundamentally changes day-to-day trading conditions. Firms continue to face significant challenges, from rising energy costs and recruitment difficulties to skills shortages and barriers to investment. While the Government has clearly listened to some business concerns, many employers will feel there was an opportunity to go further.

“Energy remains a particular concern. Businesses across Somerset continue to tell us that high energy costs are placing pressure on already stretched margins. More support in this area would have helped companies manage costs, invest with greater confidence and remain competitive.

“Skills and workforce development are equally critical. The additional funding for apprenticeships is welcome, but businesses continue to need practical solutions that help connect people with employment opportunities and equip them with the skills required by modern employers. Tackling economic inactivity and youth unemployment must remain a priority if we are to address workforce shortages and support long-term growth.

“This is where devolution becomes so important.

“The creation of a Wessex Mayoral Strategic Authority offers the opportunity for decisions on skills, infrastructure, transport and economic development to be made closer to the communities and businesses they affect. Somerset’s economy is distinct. The challenges facing businesses in our county cannot always be addressed effectively through policies designed at a national level.

“Devolution has the potential to unlock investment, improve strategic decision making and create a stronger platform for growth across the region. But it can only succeed if the people creating jobs and driving economic activity are directly involved in shaping priorities.

“That is exactly why the Wessex Chamber Alliance was formed. Together, we represent thousands of businesses across the wider Wessex economy in Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire and we believe employers must play a meaningful role in the development and governance of any future devolution settlement. Business should not be consulted after decisions have been made. It should be part of the conversation from the outset.

“The Budget sets out the Government’s national economic ambitions. Devolution gives regions like Wessex the opportunity to shape how those ambitions are delivered locally. The challenge now is turning both into tangible improvements for businesses on the ground.

“If we can combine meaningful devolution with a genuine partnership between government and business, Somerset and the wider Wessex region will be well placed to deliver the growth, investment and prosperity that our communities need. The opportunity is there. We must now make sure business has a leading role in securing it.”