An expression of interest letter has been submitted to the government after being agreed upon by the 13 councils in the region.

The letter details ambitions for a new combined authority, the Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA), which would be led by a directly elected mayor.

The proposed authority would be comprised of various councils, with the intent of securing new powers and funding for the area.

If the government accepts the expression of interest, the MSA would allow local councils to plan and deliver more integrated and effective transport, infrastructure, and housing, with an emphasis on social housing, according to West Oxfordshire District Council.

The aim is to foster conditions for accelerated, inclusive growth throughout the region.

Council discussions on the proposal took place throughout November and December.

The expression of interest was signed by Councillor Mary Temperton, leader of Bracknell Forest Council and chair of the Berkshire Prosperity Board, and Councillor Liz Leffman, leader of Oxfordshire County Council.

Councillor Temperton said: "Signing the expression of interest is an important step forward in our local devolution journey, and together we hope that this will provide a compelling case to government for sustained investment in the region.

"I am looking forward to continuing the productive discussions that have been taking place and developing our plans with government."

She said she hoped that the MSA would help to boost the local economy and improve critical services for residents.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: "We have a once in a generation chance to seize the opportunities that devolution offers.

"By coming together as a strategic authority, our councils can better coordinate resources and expertise to deliver the support our residents need.

"Our collaboration will support innovative businesses, expanding access to skills training, affordable homes, and a modern, joined-up transport network—ensuring everyone benefits from new opportunities and an improved quality of life.

"A Thames Valley MSA will harness the collective strengths of the region to unlock unparalleled prospects for inclusive and sustainable growth.

"It provides a unique opportunity to shape our urban and rural places ensuring lasting benefits for current and future generations."

The Thames Valley MSA’s vision is to speed up delivery, draw investment, and strengthen what the councils say is one of the UK’s most "productive" and "innovative" regional economies.

Its ambition is to be a strategic growth partner for neighbouring authorities where joint working will be beneficial.

The councils said this approach is for example councils linked to the Oxford – Cambridge corridor.

Further discussions and detailed proposals are set to be developed in the coming months for deliberation by local councils and partners.