Combined authorities and combined county authorities

A combined authority (CA) and a county combined authority (CCA) are two types of strategic authority introduced in England outside Greater London.

As of 5 June 2026, there are 13 CAs and six CCAs, predominantly in areas where they are considered likely to improve transport, economic development, and regeneration. Together with the Greater London Authority, these are known as strategic authorities since 2026. 11 CAs and two CCAs are led by a directly-elected mayor. Strategic authority mayors sit on the Mayoral Council for England.

The first CA to be established was the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in 2011, and since 2022 the UK government has increased its support for the creation of CAs and CCAs. The most recently created, as of 4 June 2026, is the Hampshire and the Solent Combined County Authority.