Councils respond to Devolution White Paper in Devon

The English Devolution White Paper is a government document outlining plans to distribute powers, responsibilities, and funding from central government to local authorities, regions, and other bodies within England. It serves as a roadmap for reforming governance and increasing local autonomy, aiming to address disparities in economic development, public service delivery, and decision-making across the country. The White Paper seeks to give more decision-making power to local leaders and councils, enabling them to tailor policies and services to the specific needs of their regions. A major focus of devolution in England has been to address regional inequalities, often tied to the broader "levelling up" strategy, which aims to boost opportunities in historically underfunded or less prosperous areas.

While the specifics can vary depending on the publication and updates of the White Paper, typical components include:

• Economic Development Powers: Allowing regions to control investments in infrastructure, transport, and local economies.

• Control Over Public Services: Delegating responsibilities for services like health, housing, education, and skills training.

• Enhanced Local Funding: Providing regions with greater financial autonomy and tools like retaining a portion of locally generated taxes or levies.

This joint statement from all involved councils in Devon has been made following the publication of the English Devolution White Paper.

“The Devon districts are fully supportive of genuine devolution of powers from Whitehall to local government.

“However, following the publication of the Devolution White Paper, and subsequent statements by the leader of Devon County Council, we would like to make it clear that we do not support the creation of one unitary council for Devon. 

“Our county, including Torbay, is diverse and made up of nearly 1 million residents across urban, coastal, and rural areas. Any reform of local government in Devon should follow a period of proper consultation with residents, businesses, elected representatives, and stakeholders. Looking at the evidence, we should decide collectively what is best for our area. A single unitary council for the county risks diminishing local representation, with decision-making that is remote from the communities we serve.

“We do not support postponing the county council elections scheduled for May 2025. The government has indicated that this will only happen in priority areas who have clear and agreed plans. This is not the case in Devon, so we cannot be in the first phase of these reforms. 

“We recognise that the government’s white paper sets a clear direction of travel. As Devon’s city, district, and borough council leaders, we want to work collaboratively with others, in particular with our neighbouring unitary councils, to agree how we respond to this. Any changes must be carefully considered, transparent, and inclusive, ensuring that residents and businesses are fully engaged in shaping the future governance of Devon.

“Our objective must be to get this right for our residents and businesses. That cannot be achieved if we make rushed decisions that have not been given the serious consideration that they deserve."

Statement agreed by the following leaders:

Cllr Paul Arnott, East Devon

Cllr Phil Bialyk, Exeter

Cllr Julian Brazil, South Hams

Cllr David Clayton, North Devon

Cllr Mandy Ewings, West Devon

Cllr Ken James, Torridge

Cllr Richard Keeling, Teignbridge

Cllr Luke Taylor, Mid Devon