A BID has been made to Government for transport devolution.

Transport For The South East, which is a partnership between 16 local authorities and business leaders in the region, has submitted a proposal for the group to become a “statutory sub-national transport body”.

If approved by Parliament, the change would give the organisation more influence over Government decision-making on transport issues and “the powers needed to deliver major improvements to the South East’s transport network”.

East Sussex County Councillor Keith Glazier, who is chairman of Transport For The South East, said: “The South East is a true powerhouse for the UK economy, contributing more than any other region outside London.

“It’s the country’s principal international gateway for people and goods and drives productivity and prosperity across the UK.

“Our transport strategy sets out how investment in a more sustainable transport network will help our economy recover and grow, delivering a green transport revolution that will create jobs, boost quality of life and help cut carbon emissions to net-zero.

“Statutory status will mean we can work with Government to decide how and where money is spent on our region’s transport network and give us the powers we need to accelerate schemes and projects which are better for people, better for business and better for the planet.”