A devolution deal that will give Sheffield increased control over its transport, housing, skills and business services has been agreed in Westminster.

MP for Sheffield Hallam and deputy prime minister Nick Clegg visited the city to announce the agreement, which was signed at the end of late-night negotiations on December 11th.

Sheffield will now be able to introduce measures such oyster-style smart cards to pay for transport. However, the deal does not mean Sheffield will have an elected mayor or any increased powers in city governance, which were features of a similar devolution deal for Manchester.

Mr Clegg said he had made devolution for the city a personal priority, adding that the new power would mean decisions about local services “are in line with what local people want. From transforming travel across the city, to improving access to skills training, the deal will mean changes in the city are shaped by those who live there.”