Burnham promises an end to mayors going 'cap in hand' as Wednesday's Budget unveils £1.5bn borrowing facility

Chancellor John Healey is to hand mayors an initial £285m in 'good growth' cash next year, replacing what the Treasury calls 'fragmented bidding pots' run from Whitehall. The £1.5bn borrowing pot will not arrive until 2028 and will be designed with mayors over two years. Treasury officials fear some councils lack the capacity to run bigger budgets. So £150m more will go on building their expertise.

Healey says regional potential has gone 'untapped and wasted' while power stayed in Westminster.

More than £1bn for social housing will push the 10-year homes programme past £40bn.

Areas without strategic authority status will still get a share during a 'transitional period'.