What to expect when the new mayor of Greater Lincolnshire takes office

WHAT THEY CAN AND CAN'T DO WITH THEIR LEADERSHIP

- BY JAMIE WALLER Local Democracy Reporter

THE new Greater Lincolnshire mayor will bring fresh powers to the region when they are elected for the first time.

Their goal is to provide strong leadership, speak for it on the national stage, and ensure major decisions for Lincolnshire are made in Lincolnshire.

The election will take place on Thursday, May 1, with the term to last for four years. Six candidates are vying for the role, although many voters aren't clear what the mayor will actually be able to do and what will be out of their hands.

What they can do

Deliver investment

The mayor will have a budget of £24m per year for the next 30 years. This can be used to deliver on housing, commercial space or other major projects, particularly in areas where the private sector's been reluctant to step in.

The new authority can buy or sell land for the purposes of growth and regeneration, including compulsory purchases where the local council agrees.