Co-founder of Hydraulics Online, Helen Tonks MBE, shares her thoughts on how devolution could benefit Cheshire and Warrington.

‍

What could devolution mean for Cheshire and Warrington’s future?

“Devolution represents a fundamental shift to long-term strategic planning for our area. Rather than waiting for decisions made in Westminster, we'd have local leaders who understand our unique strengths, challenges, and opportunities.

"It really is about putting place above politics. As someone who's built a business here, I can see the potential when decisions are made by people genuinely committed to our area's future. It means investments in skills and infrastructure that are foundations for sustainable growth.

"Devolution could transform how we approach everything, from premises and transport links that serve our business needs and rural communities, to education and training programmes that align with our economic strengths. It's about creating the kind of place where talent chooses to stay, start businesses, and build futures, because the opportunities genuinely compete with anywhere else.”

‍

How can devolution support Cheshire and Warrington’s businesses?

“I know first hand how crucial local infrastructure, skills, premises, and support networks are to success. Devolution could mean strategic investments that recognise what businesses need to compete globally while remaining rooted locally.

"SMEs are the backbone of the economy, yet are often overlooked - particularly start-ups and micro-SMEs. Generic business support designed in London can often miss the mark for our specific industries and the reality of running small businesses.

"With devolved powers, we could develop targeted support that recognises the diverse needs across our area - from supporting rural enterprises and agricultural innovation in Cheshire, to leveraging Warrington's logistics advantages. We could create skills programmes that align with local employer needs and ensure adequate premises are available for growing businesses.

"For sectors like fluid power and engineering, devolution could mean better coordination between our universities, training providers and businesses. We could develop the kind of integrated approach to innovation and skills that turns our area into a genuine hub - not just for the UK market, but as a launching pad for global success.

"The key is having decision-makers who understand that supporting business is about creating an ecosystem where micro-SMEs and start-ups can thrive, scale, and choose to invest their growth back into the local area.”

‍

What do you think the benefits are of having an elected Mayor for the area?

“An elected Mayor gives us something we've never had before - a single, accountable voice for our area and someone focused on delivering for both Cheshire's rural communities and our urban centres. A Mayor with real powers could cut through complexity and drive coordinated action across transport, skills, housing, premises, and economic development.

"Most importantly, an elected Mayor would have the democratic mandate to make tough, long-term decisions, showing tangible progress on the issues that matter to families and businesses over the longer term.

"Success would be measured by what they deliver for our place and our people. That kind of direct accountability, combined with real powers to make change happen, could be transformative - it's about having someone whose job it is to fight for our area's future, with the voice, tools and mandate to make a difference.”

‍

Find out more about Hydraulics Online.

‍