Following the decision at the meeting of the North East Combined Authority Leadership Board on Tuesday 6th September, Cllr Paul Watson, chair of NECA said: “Each of the seven councils which make up the North East Combined Authority has always made clear that they support the principle of devolution for the North East. “Following the outcome of the EU referendum and the subsequent changes within Government, council leaders have been equally clear that to move forward, the new Government must provide assurances regarding the terms of the region’s devolution deal. “Extensive discussions and negotiations have taken place with Government and within the region over recent months but unfortunately, despite our best efforts, it has not been possible to reach an agreement which all of the seven local authorities feel able to support. “Although this is disappointing we will continue to work together with Government to achieve our ambition of a stronger regional economy with improved opportunities for residents and businesses.”