A leading business voice is urging councillors to back devolution this month, as Cheshire and Warrington prepares for decisive votes on its future.

Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, and Warrington Borough Councils will vote in the coming weeks on whether to move forward with a deal that could see a mayor elected in 2027.

"Devolution is a game-changer for Cheshire and Warrington and has the strong backing of our business community," said Steve Purdham, chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Business Advisory Board (BAB).

The business leader has called on councillors to "match the ambition of local businesses" by voting for a mayoral combined authority.

He added: "With local control over infrastructure, skills and investment, we can drive growth where it matters most – creating jobs, attracting enterprise and building lasting prosperity.

"For us, this is about taking control from Whitehall – securing greater local investment and just as importantly a seat at the table where the big decisions are made.

"This is a once-in-a-generation chance to unlock our full potential, and business leaders stand ready to play their part.

"A Mayoral Combined Authority will give Cheshire and Warrington the tools to innovate, attract investment and build an inclusive economy that works for everyone."

If approved, local councils would become part of a new combined authority local government structure, similar to the Liverpool City Region, with more funding and decision-making relinquished to it by Westminster.

The figurehead would be an elected mayor who would represent the new Cheshire and Warrington area.

A combined authority would, in theory, give the three areas more bargaining power at the top tables of government and business.

The new mayor would have considerable influence on things like strategic transport matters, training and employment.

Critics of combined authorities claim they add an unnecessary additional layer to local government and that they can be dominated by large towns and cities.

Timeline of council votes:

• Cheshire West and Chester Council – full council, Tuesday 9 September; Cabinet, Wednesday 10 September
• Warrington Borough Council – full council, Monday 15 September; Cabinet, Monday 22 September
• Cheshire East Council – full council, Wednesday 17 September