In this Order—

• “the 2009 Act” means the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009;

• “combined area” means the area consisting of the areas of the constituent councils;

• “the Combined Authority” means the Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland Combined Authority as constituted by article 3;

• “the commencement date” means the date on which this Order comes into force;

• “constituent councils” means the councils for the local government areas of Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland;

• “the county councils” means Durham County Council and Northumberland County Council;

• “financial year” means the period of 12 months ending with 31st March in any year;

• “the ITA” means the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority; and

• “the Local Enterprise Partnership” means the board of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership.