Brighton Chamber welcomed 150 attendees to its Big Debate – bringing together a panel from across Brighton & Hove’s business and political landscape at The Old Market in Hove to discuss what devolution actually is, why it could unlock growth for our region and what the business community needs.
With Sussex and Brighton identified as a priority area for devolution by central government, The Big Debate provided space for the business community to get to grips with what that actually means – and why it matters.
The panel, chaired by Natalie Orringe (Founder, Strategy + Impact) included Richard Freeman (CEO at always possible), Jessica Gibbons (CEO at Brighton & Hove City Council), Lila Crockett and Leon Treasure (representatives from the Brighton & Hove City Youth Council) and Sarah Springford (CEO at Brighton Chamber). Together, they unpacked what a new mayoral combined authority could mean for infrastructure, skills and investment.
Kicking off the event, Natalie Orringe stressed that devolution must reflect the full diversity of local voices to have real impact – and the panel covered a wide range of themes – from long-term planning to local representation.
Richard Freeman highlighted the need for strategic, region-wide thinking on infrastructure, skills and transport, with decisions shaped beyond the limits of political cycles.
Jessica Gibbons clarified the difference between devolution and local government reform, emphasising the need for clarity in an increasingly complex landscape.
Lila Crockett and Leon Treasure from the Brighton & Hove City Youth Council shared that most young people don’t even know what devolution is – calling for earlier, more meaningful involvement and better access to opportunities.
From the business community, Sarah Springford reflected a mood of interest, but uncertainty: devolution is on the radar, but better communication and clearer outcomes are needed to build confidence and engagement with the local business community.
Audience input was a key part of the debate, with attendees asked to share what their top priorities would be if Sussex were to get a regional mayor. Attendees called for action on five key areas: improved regional transport and connectivity; affordable housing; stronger support for skills and job opportunities for young people; clearer communication and public engagement; and fair, transparent funding that reflects the diverse needs of communities across Sussex. From cycle lanes and social housing to youth career pathways and stronger local identity, the message was clear - devolution must deliver practical, people-focused outcomes.
The event reinforced that, while devolution presents big opportunities, the conversation is only just beginning – and the business community wants to be part of shaping what comes next.
Sarah Springford, CEO at Brighton Chamber and panellist at the event said: “Devolution will be a big topic for businesses, residents and visitors in Brighton, and this was an important event for the Chamber to facilitate. It’s clear that devolution could be a breakaway moment for Sussex, but we need to see better communications and involvement from key stakeholders from across Brighton and Sussex, for devolution to be successful in our region.”
Brighton Chamber is an inclusive and welcoming membership organisation for businesses in Brighton to meet, learn and grow through a vibrant programme of events, personalised introductions and support for every business.
The Big Debate was hosted at the Old Market on 17 June 2025, sponsored by Silverstone Communications.