North East of England set to elect mayor in 2024 in devolution deal

New authority will be handed control of £1.4bn over next 30 years, says Michael Gove

Levelling up secretary Michael Gove has announced new devolution deal (PA)

The North East of England is set to become the latest region to have a directly-elected mayor, as the government announced a new devolution deal for the region.

Levelling up secretary Michael Gove said a “historic” deal would bring fresh powers over skills, transport and housing to local leaders across Northumberland, Newcastle, Sunderland and elsewhere.

The devolution plan would see the introduction of a new directly elected mayor for the North East, with proposals for the first election to take place in May 2024 following a consultation process.