West of England Combined Authority Leadership Described as “In Turmoil” by Council Leader

The leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council (BANES), Kevin Guy, has characterized the leadership of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) as being “in turmoil.” This statement follows the departure of several prominent senior officers from the organization, which is headed by Labour Regional Mayor Dan Norris. The authority’s employment committee is scheduled to convene on Friday in a private session. The BBC has learned that this meeting will address alleged procedural irregularities concerning certain appointments. Mr. Guy has leveled an accusation against Mayor Norris, suggesting he has been distracted since his election to Parliament during the summer. Mayor Norris has chosen not to provide a comment. The West of England Combined Authority comprises Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and BANES Councils, with Mayor Norris, elected in 2021, at its helm. In July, he was also elected as the Member of Parliament for North East Somerset and Hanham. WECA’s responsibilities include regional transport, housing, and adult skills. However, the authority has frequently faced public disagreements politically. The most recent disclosures, nevertheless, pertain to issues that have occurred away from public scrutiny. In an interview with BBC Radio Bristol, Councillor Guy stated: “I would say because of the instability brought about by the WECA Mayor concentrating on his parliamentary ambitions, he has taken his leadership eye away from WECA, and that has caused significant instability at the heart of the institution.” He further remarked, “I welcome the elections next May, hopefully we will get new leadership. The job of the Mayor is to be a regional leader and work with local Councils.” Stephen Peacock, previously the chief executive of Bristol City Council, was appointed as WECA’s new chief executive earlier this year, marking the third individual to hold the CEO position since Mr. Norris’ election in 2021. According to Mr. Guy: “He’s clearly with appearances taking a bit of a broom to senior management. Is that the right or wrong thing to do?” He continued, “There are a number of issues that have been brought to my attention as a member of the WECA board which I can’t talk about because we have confidential employment committees to go to. “There is turmoil at the top of WECA,” he concluded. A new West of England Mayor is slated for election in May. Dan Norris will not be eligible to run, as the Labour Party has revised its regulations concerning members simultaneously holding two elected positions. The Labour Party’s candidate is expected to be revealed tomorrow. A spokesperson for the Mayoral Combined Authority chose not to comment.