Former Lymington mayor Jack Davies running to be first Hampshire and Solent regional mayor against Donna Jones and Lorna Fielker

FORMER Lymington mayor Jack Davies is throwing his hat in the ring to become the first mayor of the Hampshire and Solent region under devolution plans.

The 29-year-old said he wants to run on behalf of the Lib Dems with a vision to “end the housing crisis” and secure a future for the next generation.

Jack is the third to so far put his name forward for the role, after the county’s police and crime commissioner and former Portsmouth City Council leader, Conservative Donna Jones, and former Southampton City Council leader, Labour’s Lorna Fielker.

The government’s devolution plans will see powers transferred from central government to local areas through larger strategic authorities headed by an elected mayor. This comes amid local government reorganisation, which is set to see the end of New Forest District Council.

Jack said: “Too many young people are being priced out of the places they grew up in. I know that pain – I still live in social housing because buying or even private renting is out of reach.

“We need urgent action: more homes for social rent, better jobs in rural areas, and a real plan to keep communities together.

“Being young and working class, my voice is the exact kind we need to hear more in politics at the moment. Too many decisions are being made for the benefit of the rich and powerful.

“As mayor, I’ll fight to end the housing crisis for good – and build a region where young people can thrive, not just survive.

“It’s time for change. I’m ready to deliver it.”

Ms Jones’ campaign for the role caused controversy after she was accused of abusing her position as crime commissioner to publicise her candidacy in March.

She said: “A directly elected mayor for Hampshire would ensure that our region’s voice is heard loud and clear – both at Westminster and beyond – and help tackle England’s democratic deficit once and for all.

“I believe I can be the champion Hampshire needs as its first regional mayor and I will be making that case around the county as I put myself forward to be the Conservative candidate.

“We no doubt have electoral challenges ahead as the party begins to rebuild, but… Conservative mayors have track records of delivery. A case I’ll be making to the residents of Hampshire in the months ahead.”

Announcing her candidacy on behalf of Labour earlier this month, Lorna Fielker told the BBC: “To be credible in that role, I need to speak for the whole region, not just the city.

“The combined authority represents a huge opportunity.

“I believe our region deserves a strong, collaborative voice, someone who understands how to unlock its full potential by working together.”

The election for the first regional mayor is due to be held on 7th May 2026.