Mayor marks six months in office

The region’s Mayor today reflects on her first six months in office and looks to the future.

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said:

“Since May, we have started a new chapter for the West. I’m proud to be doing things differently. Kids Go Free this summer saw more than 910,000 free journeys for children and young people across our region.

“We’ve already secured the best part of £1 billion – including £752 million for better buses, more trains, and mass transit plans. On top of that, the government is investing £40 million into Twerton and Hartcliffe, devolving £25 million for us to grow our creative industries, and funding solar panels for two dozen schools.

“Working with council leaders and partners, we’re investing in new and existing train stations, rolling out green electric buses, and launching new routes. Regional funding is supporting better walking and cycling options across the West, and investing in parks and high streets.

“Together, we’ve launched an ambitious new Growth Strategy with a plan for 72,000 new jobs over the coming decade. Our new business board will help secure investment while the Youth Guarantee gets more young people into work and training.

“We’ve made a strong start. There’s more to do and the best is yet to come.”