New names for AGMA and GMPTE

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities has been renamed Greater Manchester Combined Authority as of Friday 1 April.

AGMA is holding a meeting at 10am today and said in a document that "the draft Order was laid before Parliament in mid-February. It has now passed through both Houses of Parliament and the Order was made on 22 March and provides that the Combined Authority will come into being on 1 April in accordance with the original timetable."

AGMA said the Combined Authority complements the recent announcement of the Greater Manchester local enterprise partnership and will ensure a coordinated approach is delivered in the ten local authorities that make up the Manchester city region.

Under the new arrangements a new body, the Transport for Greater Manchester, will also be established which is the new name for the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive.

GMPTE said transport policies that affect the ten districts of Greater Manchester are set by the new Greater Manchester Combined Authority and its Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, which is "a joint committee established by the Parties".

GMPTE said Transport for Greater Manchester will be responsible for investing public money in improving transport services and facilities.

AGMA said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority will not replace the ten local authorities, but will comprise one member from each.