Shropshire Chamber of Commerce is urging businesses to share their views on what devolution should deliver for Shropshire, as the Government continues to shift powers and funding away from Westminster.

With national policy increasingly centred around combined authorities and metro mayors, the Chamber says it is essential that the needs, priorities and economic identity of Shropshire are not overlooked.

The Government has not yet set out what future devolution arrangements should look like for Shropshire. Instead, the county is being asked to consider how it might work with neighbouring areas and what kind of regional partnership would best support its economy.

The Chamber warns that without a clear and credible place within these emerging structures, Shropshire risks being left on the sidelines when decisions are made about investment, transport, skills and infrastructure.

  • Businesses are being asked to share their views by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., under the heading ‘Devolution for Shropshire’.

Liz Keirle, policy and patron engagement manager at Shropshire Chamber, said the implications were too important for businesses to stay silent.

“Devolution is gathering pace, and Shropshire cannot afford to be on the sidelines. We need to make sure the county is properly connected to the right regional structures, has influence where it matters, and secures the investment our businesses and communities need.

“This is a moment for Shropshire’s business community to speak up – and we want to hear from every sector, every size of business, and every corner of the county, with a good mix of employers from both the Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin areas.

“What works well for large urban areas such as Greater Manchester or the West Midlands does not necessarily work for Shropshire, which is a large, predominantly rural county with a very different economy, infrastructure and transport network.”

If Shropshire is not aligned with the right regional partnership, decisions could be shaped around bigger urban economies while rural priorities receive less attention, the Chamber fears.

That could affect everything from improving road and rail connections to developing the skilled workforce local employers need and attracting investment into the county, it says.

Despite the risks, the Chamber believes devolution could also present a significant opportunity for a county with a strong economy, ambitious businesses and an important role to play in the wider Midlands.

“This is not simply about whether Shropshire has a mayor,” Liz said. “It is about making sure Shropshire has influence, access to investment and a seat at the table when decisions affecting our businesses and economy are made.”