Bristol-born community leader pledges new chapter of growth and collaboration for the region
Helen Godwin has been elected as the new West of England Regional Mayor, securing a victory in yesterday’s mayoral election. Godwin, who campaigned on a platform of delivering practical change and unlocking regional investment, will become the West of England Combined Authority’s (WECA) new leader.
In her acceptance speech, Godwin thanked voters across Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire for their support and pledged to begin work immediately on her key manifesto commitments.
“This region isn’t just my political home—it’s where I was born, where my children are growing up, and where my family’s roots run deep across the West Country,” said Godwin. “Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for the West of England, where we’ll bring people together and work more transparently to deliver the ambitious change our communities need.”
As a former Bristol cabinet member with experience in both business and politics, Godwin campaigned on her reputation as someone who “gets things done.” Her victory creates a significant opportunity for the region, with a Labour Regional Mayor now working alongside the Labour government to secure investment.
Godwin’s administration will focus on five headline pledges:
- Working with the Labour government to unlock funding for regional development
- Creating a reliable and consistent bus transport network with one ticket and one timetable
- Opening more railway stations to improve connectivity, including Portishead and Filton North
- Building affordable homes in the right places with essential services
- Linking education and industry to make the West of England the home of new green jobs
The new Regional Mayor emphasised her commitment to cross-party collaboration. “Success isn’t about working alone—it’s about bringing the right people together. I’ll use my proven track record of collaboration and strong government connections to put our region on the map.”
Godwin will formally take office next week, with her first official engagements expected to focus on transport infrastructure and investment opportunities.