Hampshire and Solent Devolution: What it means for public sector property strategy

The Government has formally confirmed that it will move forward with the establishment of a new Mayoral County Combined Authority (MCCA) for Hampshire and the Solent, marking a pivotal step toward devolved powers and enhanced regional decision-making.

This major milestone in the UK’s devolution journey will see responsibility for key policy areas-including transport, housing, skills, and economic growth – transferred from central government to local leaders.

The goal: to better align public investment with the needs and priorities of communities across the central south.

By empowering the region to shape its own future, the new MCCA will act as a unified voice, driving productivity, regeneration, and sustainable economic growth, with significant implications for the public sector property estate.

What devolution means for the public sector estate

For local authorities and public bodies, devolution represents a generational opportunity to reimagine how public services are delivered and, critically, how the public estate supports that mission.

With powers and funding devolved to a regional level, public sector organisations in Hampshire and the Solent will be better positioned to make joined-up decisions about strategic estate planning, asset optimisation, and the delivery of fit-for-purpose facilities that truly reflect community need.

A welcome move and catalyst for smarter property strategy

Vail Williams LLP, a leading specialist in public sector property consultancy, has welcomed the announcement.

The firm is already advising public sector clients across the region to ensure their property strategies align with future devolution plans.

James Lacey, Head of Public Sector at Vail Williams, commented:

“The creation of a Mayoral County Combined Authority represents a pivotal opportunity to build a more efficient, responsive, and sustainable public estate for the future.

With deep roots in the South Coast and decades of experience in public sector estate management, Vail Williams continues to support clients through both day-to-day requirements and long-term strategic change.

Russell Miller, Regional Managing Partner (South Coast) at Vail Williams, added:

“As devolution plans evolve, we’re committed to supporting the ongoing operational needs of our public sector partners.

“Over the next 12 to 24 months, a number of critical property decisions will need to be made, whether related to service consolidation, acquisitions, disposals, or estate rationalisation.

“Our role is to provide trusted, expert advice and transactional support, ensuring the region’s public estate remains resilient, agile, and aligned to future priorities.”