Norfolk could soon have elected county council leader as part of Government devolution plans announced in Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement

Norfolk could soon have an elected leader as part of a Government bid to give more power to councillors.

During his Autumn Statement last week, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced that, in a bid to "make it easier for local leaders to make things happen without banging on a Whitehall door", he was considering expanding a mayor programme.

Our county was touted as one of three potential target areas, although it is understood this would involve having an elected county council leader rather than an official mayor.

At the moment, Norfolk County Council elects its own leader - with no public referendum.

Last year, the council was identified as one of nine authorities the Government wished to discuss a devolution deal with.

This would aim to boost growth by giving the council more power to utilise funding deals without as much oversight from MPs.

Cllr Andrew Proctor, leader of Norfolk County Council, said: "The Government has recognised that we have made good progress in our negotiations on a devolution deal, which could bring significant funding and powers to Norfolk - creating jobs, growing the economy and boosting skills and housing.

"The next steps are to conclude discussions with the Government with a view to announcing an in principle Level 3 deal in due course."

Delivering his statement last Thursday, Mr Hunt said that "to unlock growth right across the country, we need to make it easier for local leaders to make things happen without banging on a Whitehall door".

He said that this could be achieved through £600 billion of investment over the next five years "to connect our country and grow our economy".

Mr Hunt added: "Taken together, that £600 billion investment over the next five years means the largest investment in public works for forty years.

"Our children and grandchildren can be confident that this Conservative government is investing in their future."