Andy Burnham makes first visit to Sheffield as Prime Minister as devolution plans announced
The visit came as more powers are set to be granted to South Yorkshire
The Prime Minister visited a family centre in Sheffield today as he announced major changes to the UK’s power structure.
Andy Burnham came to the Steel City after the plans to see a portion of income tax and business rates sent to metro mayors were revealed earlier today (July 31).
He spent the morning at Meadow Family Centre, on Shirecliffe Road, alongside South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard and Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey, who also serves as MP in Rawmarsh and Conisbrough.
The centre is run in partnership between Sheffield Hallam University, Save the Children UK, Watercliffe Meadow Primary School and Sheffield City Council.
The location was chosen as South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) previously launched their Beds for Babies scheme there, offering moses basket, cot, cotbed or toddler bed to any under-five who needs it.
Offices like SYMCA will now receive extra funding, as the Prime Minister promises to move power out of Westminster and let local communities choose how to tackle their issues.
Speaking during the visit, Prime Minister Andy Burnham MP said: “What an amazing place you have here. You can feel it walking through the door, what a welcoming place this is.
“Well done to Sheffield Hallam University. It’s great to get universities involved on the ground supporting people and families.
“It’s a credit to you and all the partners and the community.”