News / Bristol
Metro mayor Tim Bowles promises to deliver change
The West of England’s first metro mayor, Tim Bowles, has promised to be a pioneer for change as he sets out to raise the region’s profile.
Flanked by heads from each of the Greater Bristol councils, the former local Conservative councillor made political history when he was sworn in at a brief, business-like ceremony in the Engine Shed on Monday.
Metro mayor Tim Bowles fails to keep the attention of mayor Marvin Rees far left) at his inauguration ceremony.
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees had publicly backed Labour colleague Lesley Mansell, who was beaten into second place by Bowles, but told Bristol24/7 that he is prepared to rally together and focus on what is best for the city.
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He stands as the only Labour leader within the predominantly Tory combined authority, which comprises Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset and Gloucestershire councils, and said the key thing is to work out the nature of the working relationship and what is needed.
Metro mayor Tim Bowles promises to deliver change.
Calling it a proud moment, Bowles promised to adopt a collaborative, joined-up approach as he takes control of new devolved powers over transport, education, housing and economic infrastructure for the region.
“I will be sitting down with the other leaders to make sure we are all on clear as to what is the solution to the challenges facing the West,” Bowles told Bristol24/7.
“It’s really about raising the profile of the region and I will be spending a lot of time going out to speak to more people and businesses of all sizes to get even more of a picture together. We are really looking forward to delivering change.”
In his inauguration speech, The Winterbourne businessman said: “The devolution deal unlocks a billion pounds of funding over the next 30 years. This will help us work together to tackle priorities such as improving transport, delivering affordable homes and investing in the skills training needed for the local economy.
“I hope this is just the start – I want us to plan ahead and work with Government to secure more funding and future devolution deals to benefit our area.”
Turnout for the metro mayor elections was 29.62 per cent (30.88 per cent in Bristol), with 198,810 ballots cast.
When challenged as to how he will engage the electorate, many of whom have expressed doubt about the need for another mayor, Bowles said he plans to get out on the streets, talking to people, explaining his role and asking questions.
Rees said he has a good relationship with the other council leaders and that it is important to recognise they are interdependent.
“I look forward to seeing how we can strengthen the things we are doing in Bristol,” he said.
“The key thing is to focus on what we need here. We need to build homes and we need a world class transport system. We need skills and investment. If we really rally around that, I am sure we will be able to work together.”
Read more: ‘As a region, we can be ambitious’
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