This briefing paper discusses the challenges and recommendations for improving data sharing and transparency among Combined Authorities (CAs) in England. It highlights seven key devolution asks to enhance collaboration between Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs) and the government, establish clear governance and accountability for data, standardise data collection and management practices, identify critical datasets, invest in local capacity, reduce the cost of licensing data products, and facilitate research collaboration. The paper emphasises the importance of data in driving evidence-based decision-making and achieving local policy objectives.
“Greater devolution of data accessibility and sharing would help deliver better outcomes for residents through better evidence for action, monitoring, and evaluation.”
Professor Rebecca Riley, City-REDI, University of Birmingham
To achieve better data transparency and sharing, it is crucial for local and central government to collaborate on addressing barriers to data access, invest in local capacity, and establish clear governance and accountability frameworks. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, Combined Authorities can enhance their ability to make informed decisions and drive positive outcomes for their communities.
Please reference this paper as:
Riley, R. (2025). Data and Transparency for Combined Authorities: Briefing Paper. The Local Policy Innovation Partnership Hub.
Meet the Author
Professor Rebecca Riley
Professor Rebecca (Bec) Riley is Co-Director of City-REDI, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Regional Engagement, Director of the Local Policy Innovation Partnership (LPIP) Hub, and Professor of Enterprise, Engagement, and Impact at the University of Birmingham’s Business School.
Bec’s research interests focus on regional economic development, including research to develop policy and regional strategies, monitoring frameworks, economic forecasting, skills and labour market analysis, and strategic business cases and project evaluation. She applies a mixed methods approach in her research, with a strong focus and record of impactful policy-relevant applied research and stakeholder engagement. She is an experienced lead on research projects, with over 200 research projects carried out across academia, policy, and consultancy roles.
