WARRINGTON Borough Council's leader has announced the authority is 'now in agreement' that a devolution deal with an elected mayor is the 'most appropriate' for the town.

Cllr Terry O'Neill (LAB – Burtonwood and Winwick) confirmed the authority's stance following internal political discussions.

He said: "We are now in agreement that the model of devolved powers from Whitehall, together with an elected mayor, is the most appropriate arrangement for our borough.

"We will continue our conversations with other local authorities and Government to ensure we have the best set of benefits to support the long-term future of the borough and the best outcomes for our residents and businesses."

Cllr O'Neill previously dismissed the prospect of an elected mayor for Warrington but council chiefs now believe it is the best option open to the town, if it wants to secure additional funding to deliver improvements across the borough.

The council currently retains 27 per cent of its business rates, which is set to amount to £28 million this year, but the town hopes to retain 100 per cent by 2020 – a vision which would be massively boosted by thrashing out a devolution deal.

In June the town's Labour group voted against the Government's devolution proposals, with claims made it offered the town 'very little'.

Arrangements would have seen Warrington join up with the Cheshire authorities.

But last month the devolution task group, which has an advisory role, voted to pursue further negotiations with the Liverpool City Region.

Shortly after, Warrington South MP David Mowat claimed the town would be placed 'right at the back of the queue' whenever funding is available if it joins with Liverpool.

The politician also accused Labour of blocking a deal with Cheshire, which he believes would have brought 'tens of millions of new money into the town', due to fears of a Tory mayor being elected.

On the contrary, Warrington North MP Helen Jones is adamant the town would be better suited to a deal with Liverpool, rather than with the Cheshire authorities.

The task group's recommendation will have to be officially submitted before it comes before leading councillors at the Town Hall.

The matter could come before the executive board as early as November 14.

Warrington South MP David Mowat has responded to Cllr O'Neill's announcement.

He said: "Devolution is massively in the best interests in Warrington.

"I am delighted that the Labour group now recognises that as well. My own preference continues to be for Warrington to join in with the rest of Cheshire."