The leader of Telford & Wrekin Council has issued a formal statement clarifying the council’s position on regional planning, confirming that it has submitted a proposal focused on strengthening its longstanding economic ties with the Black Country and the wider West Midlands.
Councillor Lee Carter, who has led the council since July 2024, stated on 10 April 2026 that the new proposal is designed to attract private sector investment and create employment opportunities for local residents. The strategy is built upon nearly a decade of cooperation, as the council has been a non-constituent member of the West Midlands Combined Authority since approximately 2016. These ties reflect decades of history in trade, business, housing, and family connections within the region.
Councillor Carter emphasised that the council is not currently involved in any other formal devolution discussions. He added that the council does not view this regional planning proposal as predetermining its stance on any potential future strategic governing bodies. The statement comes as the council’s own long-term development guide, the Local Plan, remains under review by government inspectors.
This Local Plan outlines a requirement for 20,680 new homes and 167 hectares of employment land across the borough for the period between 2021 and 2041. As part of this plan, the council has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding a proposal to accommodate 153 homes per year to help meet housing demand from the Black Country and other parts of the West Midlands.
Telford & Wrekin Council, which was named Council of the Year in 2025 by the Local Government Chronicle, continues to balance these regional planning responsibilities while working to ensure that future development remains beneficial for the local community.
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