The starting gun was fired last February. For the first time since Boris Johnson led the Conservatives to a decisive victory at the polls, the government set out how it plans to deliver its 'defining mission' – Levelling Up the United Kingdom.
The 300-page document signalled that the next stage of devolution in Greater Manchester is on the horizon with a commitment to 'immediately' start talks about handing over more powers to local leaders. As one of just two city-regions selected to enter talks for the 'Trailblazer' deals, the outcome of these negotiations is set to be a 'blueprint' for other parts of the country to follow.
By the summer, mayor Andy Burnham had set out his demands for Greater Manchester's latest devolution deal. This includes more control over trains, powers to punish rogue landlords and more influence over college funding.
