North East hopes as Andy Burnham to give mayors share of income tax under huge power shift

England's regional mayors, including Andy Burnham and Kim McGuinness, will gain significant funding freedom to escape the Treasury death grip. Starting from 2028, mayors will retain a share of income tax generated within their areas. Additionally, they will receive business rates totalling tens of millions of pounds by April 2027. These transformational plans enable local leaders to borrow for major projects, facilitating the delivery of transport upgrades and house building without relying on Whitehall handouts.