LGA review praises West Midlands ambition and sets clear delivery challenge

Ambition, strong leadership and a motivated workforce are driving the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to deliver real change for its residents and the region’s economy - according to its first Corporate Peer Challenge by the Local Government Association (LGA).

The four-day review, which took place from 11 to 14 November 2025, involved more than 40 meetings and discussions with over 170 staff, councillors and external partners. 

The LGA report describes WMCA as an ambitious and evolving organisation with a clear commitment to inclusive growth. It highlights improved political collaboration, strong partnerships and a renewed sense of unity across the region.

The review particularly recognises the collaborative leadership of Mayor Richard Parker and chief executive Ed Cox, and praises the recently launched West Midlands Growth Plan as a “robust and compelling vision” for the region.

Mayor Richard Parker (left) with WMCA Chief Executive Ed Cox at the launch of the West Midlands Growth Plan

Mayor Richard Parker said: “We invited this review because we are serious about delivery.

“The peer team recognised our ambition, our Growth Plan and the strength of our partnerships. They saw a region working together and determined to succeed.

“But the message is clear - ambition now has to translate into delivery at pace.

“That is my focus - just as it is the focus of the Chief Executive. We will integrate our priorities into a clear medium-term plan, strengthen leadership, sharpen our capital programme and build long-term financial resilience.

“Deeper devolution is coming. We are ready to take on more responsibility and use it to deliver jobs, homes, growth and journeys for everyone.”

 
Reflecting on the review’s findings, Ed Cox said: “Now is an important time for us. We’re undertaking a significant transformation programme that will not only get us ready to take on extra responsibilities being granted by the Devolution Bill but will refresh the way we work and put us in the best position to deliver for the people of the West Midlands.

“We want to be sure we’re on the right track, so we called in the experts at the LGA and invited them to do a ‘warts and all’ assessment of how our organisation works, our strategy and plans, and our relationships with crucial partners across the region.

“It’s incredibly encouraging to hear that they back our ambitions. Along with some good recommendations for how we can amplify what we do even further, I was especially proud that the LGA appreciated the clear dedication that every member of WMCA staff has for making a difference to the people we serve.”

The report highlights decisive action underway across the region, including: 

• The decision to bring buses back under public control for the first time in almost 40 years
• Ambitious plans to expand the tram network and improve regional connectivity
• A strengthened focus on tackling the housing crisis through increased delivery of social and affordable homes
• The Growth Plan’s targets to create 100,000 jobs and deliver around 120,000 new homes 

As one of the most mature combined authorities in England and a recognised trailblazer for devolution, WMCA is described as well placed to build on strong foundations and capitalise on new powers expected through the forthcoming English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill.

The review sets out clear priorities for the next phase, including:

• Integrating the Mayor’s priorities into a coherent medium-term organisational plan
• Stabilising senior leadership arrangements
• Strengthening long-term financial sustainability
• Creating a clear and compelling West Midlands narrative
• Sharpening the capital programme to focus on deliverable, high-impact schemes

WMCA has already begun implementing these recommendations through its transformation programme and the development of a new corporate structure, including a dedicated strategy unit and portfolio management office.

The full LGA Corporate Peer Challenge report can be accessed at: LGA Corporate Peer Challenge: West Midlands Combined Authority | Local Government Association