This Order is made in exercise of the powers conferred by sections 103(1), 104(1)(a), 105(1) and (3), 105A(1)(a) and (b)1, (2) and (3)(b), 106(1)(b), 107A(1)2, 107D(1), (7)(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e), 114(1), 115(1) and 117(5) of and paragraphs 3 and 4 of Schedule 5A and paragraph 3 of Schedule 5B to the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 20093.

The Secretary of State, having had regard to a scheme prepared and published under sections 109 and 112 of the 2009 Act, considers that—

in accordance with the requirements of sections 110(1) and 113(1)(a) the making of this Order is likely to improve the exercise of the statutory functions in the area to which this Order relates, and

a consultation has been carried out in accordance with section 110(2)(b) and 113(2)(b) and the Secretary of State considers that no further consultation is necessary.

The Secretary of State is satisfied that the areas to which this Order relates meet the conditions set out in section 103(2) and (5) and 106(2)(a) of the 2009 Act.

In making this Order, the Secretary of State has had regard to the need to reflect the identities and interests of local communities, and the need to secure effective and convenient local government.

The councils for the local government areas of Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland have consented to the making of this Order in so far as their consent is required in accordance with sections 104(10), 105(3A)(a), 107D(9) and 110(1)(b) of the 2009 Act.

The Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland Combined Authority and the councils for the local government areas of Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland have consented to the making of this Order in so far as their consent is required in accordance with section 106(3A).

The Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland Combined Authority and its constituent councils have consented to the making of Part 3 (Transport) of and Part 2 of Schedule 5 (amendments to 2014 Order as a consequence of establishment of joint transport committee) to this Order in so far as their consent is required in accordance with section 104(10).

In accordance with section 105B(9) of the 2009 Act, the Secretary of State has laid before Parliament a report explaining the effect of this Order and why the Secretary of State considers it appropriate to make this Order.

A draft of this instrument has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament pursuant to section 117(2) of the 2009 Act.