It was proposed that a combined authority be established by statutory instrument under the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009.

[2] It is a strategic authority with powers over transport, economic development and regeneration including the flagship Teesside Freeport.

The Combined Authority was established on 1 April 2016, after Local Government Minister James Wharton MP signed the necessary Order.

[3] It was announced in October 2015 that voters in the region covered by the Authority would directly elect a Mayor in 2017.

[6] A shadow combined authority was formed and chaired by Sue Jeffrey, Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.