In a significant shift for local governance, Bev Craig has been elected as the new Mayor of Greater Manchester, succeeding Andy Burnham. Following a decisive victory in the recent by-election, Craig is poised to leverage new powers from the Prime Minister, which she believes could greatly enhance the lives of residents across the region.
A New Era of Leadership
Bev Craig, representing the Labour Party, triumphed in Thursday’s by-election, amassing an impressive 309,525 votes, significantly outpacing her nearest rival, Sian Astley from Reform, who garnered 157,178 votes. Craig’s election comes on the heels of Burnham’s decision to step down in order to pursue a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, a move that has opened the door for new leadership.
During a post-election rally in Manchester, Craig expressed her enthusiasm about the newly acquired powers being delegated from Westminster, stating, “For a Prime Minister two weeks in, to start giving powers out of Whitehall and putting it in the places that can make a difference – that can change our lives.” She emphasised her commitment to rising to the challenge and fulfilling the potential of the powers being offered to mayors like herself.
Devolution and Economic Growth
The newly appointed Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has unveiled plans to grant city region mayors across England a share of income tax revenue for the first time. This initiative forms part of Burnham’s broader strategy to devolve authority and resources from central government to local leaders. Craig has welcomed these changes, noting her ambition to ensure that every child in Greater Manchester feels they have the opportunity to succeed.
Burnham articulated the philosophy behind this new approach, describing it as a move towards “Manchesterism,” which focuses on devolving control over essential issues such as housing and public transport. He stated, “We want everyone in Greater Manchester facing the same way, pulling in the same way. It is a different way of doing things.”
Craig’s Vision for Greater Manchester
With her election victory, Craig is determined to initiate a new chapter for Greater Manchester. She has outlined several key pledges aimed at improving the region’s infrastructure and supporting its residents. Notably, she plans to freeze Metrolink and bus fares on the Bee Network while expanding free bus travel to include 11 to 18-year-olds, an extension that would benefit many families.
Additionally, Craig has committed to delivering 50,000 new homes over the next 15 years, encompassing both council properties and genuinely affordable housing options. To bolster local businesses, she also intends to launch a £20 million high street scheme aimed at revitalising town centres and supporting small enterprises.
Electoral Participation and Future Challenges
Despite the significant developments, turnout for the mayoral election was notably low, with just under 25% of the 2 million eligible voters participating. Sian Astley, reflecting on her campaign, stated, “I’m really proud of our campaign… we’ll be watching to see if all those pledges made during the campaign are delivered.” This sentiment underscores the importance of accountability in the new administration.
Craig’s background, having grown up in a council estate in Belfast before moving to Manchester in 2003, adds a personal dimension to her leadership. She studied politics and modern history at the University of Manchester, equipping her with insights essential for navigating the complexities of local governance.
Why it Matters
The election of Bev Craig as Mayor of Greater Manchester marks a pivotal moment in the region’s political landscape. With a commitment to devolution and a focus on economic growth, her leadership could significantly reshape the lives of residents. As local leaders gain more power and resources, the expectation is that they will address pressing community issues, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. This shift not only reflects a changing political climate but also highlights the growing importance of local governance in tackling societal challenges.
