SOUTH Craven people are being urged to play their part in helping to shape North Yorkshire's economic future.

A major consultation exercise has been launched over a proposed devolution deal for the county.

And residents, community organisations and businesses are being encouraged to have their say.

York and North Yorkshire authority bosses say that under the draft proposals, devolved powers would see millions of pounds in funding provide better roads and public transport, improve education and job opportunities, boost economic growth and place the region at the forefront of the green energy sector to tackle climate change.

Residents would also be given the chance to elect a mayor to champion the region at a national level.

County council leader, Councillor Carl Les, says: "The launch of the consultation marks an important milestone in our journey towards securing a devolution deal.

"We need members of the public to come forward and give us their views on what's important to them.

"The chance to secure these decision-making powers and millions of pounds in funding from the Government is a life-changing opportunity for more than 800,000 people who live and work in York and North Yorkshire.

"Devolution will give local leaders the chance to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing people in the region – whether that is providing more affordable housing, improving skills and education for better job opportunities, boosting transport infrastructure or tackling the climate crisis.

"This is about creating a brighter and more prosperous future for us all, and I'd particularly urge the vitally important business sector in North Yorkshire to come forward, as business owners and entrepreneurs will be key in shaping the economy with the benefits of devolution."

The mayor – who would be elected in May, 2024, if the proposed deal goes ahead – would lead a powerful new combined authority that would oversee a range of key strategic projects.

The proposals were drawn up following detailed negotiations with the Government involving senior officers from City of York and North Yorkshire councils, and district and borough authorities.

Helen Simpson, chair of the York and North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: "This is a historic moment for the region which creates the opportunity to deliver long-term investment to support business growth. We need to ensure the business voice is heard."

For more details and to give your views, visit ynydevolution.com.

The consultation runs until December 16.