Strategic authority

Strategic authority
Map of the currently established combined (county) authorities in England
Category
  • Foundation (2)
  • Mayoral (7)
  • Established mayoral (11)
LocationEngland
Number20
Possible types
Government

A strategic authority is a public body introduced as part of English devolution. In December 2024, the term was applied retrospectively to refer to existing devolved public authorities in England that had been created since 2000. Strategic authorities became statutory in 2026 as part of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026. Strategic authorities are categorised as foundation, mayoral, and established mayoral. This indicates how developed they are as structures to receive devolved powers and funding. As of June 2026, there are twenty strategic authorities made up of thirteen combined authorities, six combined county authorities and the Greater London Authority. All strategic authorities outside Greater London were voluntarily established by their constituent councils. All but foundation strategic authorities have a strategic authority mayor.