The Sussex & Brighton Strategic Authority (SBSA) has published its September 2026 Corporate Communications Newsletter, spotlighting a month of major progress across devolution, economic strategy, international partnerships and regional leadership.
This edition captures a pivotal moment for the region, as Sussex & Brighton continues to build influence nationally while accelerating delivery locally.
Devolution: Four Priority Areas Unite for the First Time
Despite the Government’s recent pause on wider local government reorganisation, the SBSA confirms that its devolution journey remains firmly on track. The Authority – already legally established and progressing towards electing its first Mayor in 2028 – will join Hampshire & the Solent, Cheshire & Warrington, and Cumbria for a first-of-its-kind meeting of the four Devolution Priority Programme areas still awaiting Mayors. This collaboration aims to ensure all four regions secure early access to the benefits enjoyed by existing Mayoral Authorities.
Board Meeting at Shoreham Port: Decisions That Shape the Region
The Board met at Shoreham Port, one of Sussex’s most enduring economic anchors. The Port – home to over 150 businesses and boasting five consecutive years of record revenue growth – provided the backdrop for key decisions on:
- advancing bus reform,
- submitting a bid to create a digital twin of Sussex & Brighton,
- appointing the Authority’s first permanent Section 73 Officer and Monitoring Officer. These appointments mark a milestone for an Authority that did not exist a year ago.
Prosperity Strategy: Nearly 200 Conversations and Counting
Engagement on the Prosperity Strategy has surged, with almost 200 stakeholders now involved – including over 50 businesses and nearly 30 voluntary and community organisations. Recent discussions with cultural organisations are helping shape the Strategy’s culture chapter, ensuring the final document reflects the voices, priorities and ambitions of Sussex’s communities.
International Spotlight: Delegation from Shandong Province, China
Following July’s visit from Malaysia, the region welcomed a delegation from Shandong Province, signalling growing international interest in Sussex’s economic potential. The visit, supported by Gatwick Diamond Business and the China‑UK Business Development Centre, aligns with the SBSA’s ambition to build strong two‑way trade and investment relationships with major global regions.
A Seat at the Table—Even Before the Chair Arrives
SBSA officials have been invited to join Government meetings for officials ahead of Mayoral Council—despite not yet having an elected Mayor. This early involvement reflects the Authority’s proactive approach: pushing boundaries, making the case for Sussex & Brighton, and ensuring the region benefits from devolution as fully and quickly as possible.
People & Culture
The newsletter also welcomes new team members, highlights upcoming Board meetings, and even nods to Sussex’s creative scene—celebrating the debut album from Brighton trio Sairie.
For further information or to sign up to the SBSA newsletter, contact:
enquiries@sussexandbrighton-cca.gov.uk Or visit: www.sussexandbrighton-cca.gov.uk