SANDWELL residents have been urged to have their say about the new Mayor of the West Midlands.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) wants to know what residents, businesses and community groups think the responsibilities of a new mayor should include.

After striking a devolution deal with the government, the WMCA approved plans for the region’s first ever elected mayor earlier this year.

The devolution agreement will see £36.5million a year of new investment over the next 30 years devolved from Whitehall to the West Midlands.

The Mayor, who will be elected in May 2017, will work with council leaders across the region on issues including transport, highways and infrastructure projects.

Councillor Steve Eling, leader of Sandwell Council said: “It’s good news that we are pursuing a devolution deal, working together across West Midlands to bring economic benefit to us all.

"To do that, the Government requires the area to have an elected metro mayor and all of this is part of the consultation.

“I encourage people to get involved in the consultation and have their say.”

Sandwell will work closely with the Mayor and the other six constituent members in the WMCA and with local enterprise partnerships across the region.

The consultation runs until 21 August and people can have their say by visiting www.westmidlandscombinedauthority.org.uk