The designation gives the region greater access to more devolved powers and increased flexibility over funding, enabling the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (YNYCA) to drive economic growth and improve living standards across the area. David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: "This is a major milestone and clear evidence of the progress we’ve made as a county and a combined authority in a short space of time. North Yorkshire Council’s Leader, Cllr Carl Les, said: "Our work within the combined authority has brought real benefits to our communities and businesses in North Yorkshire. Councillor Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council said: “I am delighted the government has announced established strategic authority status for York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. This is an acknowledgement of how ambitious the combined authority, in collaboration with both local authorities, is for our patch.