How democratically elected mayors can achieve mission-oriented policies in turbulent times
The aim of this article is to explore how democratically elected mayors can achieve mission-oriented policies in turbulent times. Drawing on 132 interviews with decision makers in England, this article uses the case of healthy urban development to explore the role of elected mayors in mission delivery. Findings show that mayors can be figureheads for a place, work directly towards national missions, implement cross-cutting programmes, convene partnerships and lead local innovations with new evidence and data. However, more central government support is needed with investment in capacity, a broader range of powers and greater freedom from central targets and siloes.
Authors
- Andrew Barnfield (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7457-8687)
- Mark Sandford (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2987-4356)
- Jack Newman (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3541-7546)
- Sarah Ayres (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5791-6955)
- Geoff Bates (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6932-2372)
Institutions
- University of East London (GB)
- University of Bristol (GB)
- Parliament of United Kingdom (GB)
- University of Bath (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Regional Studies
- Published
- 2025-03-28
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/00343404.2025.2472014
- Citations
- 4
- Primary Topic
- International Development and Aid
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 13.80
Funders
- Wellcome Trust
- Cancer Research UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research
- British Heart Foundation
- Public Health Agency
- Helsefonden
- Medical Research Council Canada
- Chief Scientist Office, Scottish Government Health and Social Care Directorate
- Economic and Social Research Council
- Natural Environment Research Council
- Health and Social Care Research and Development Division