'We need the enhanced powers' - Devon councils unite behind bold plan to reshape regional power

Council leaders across Devon have come together to support the creation of a South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA), which would represent 1.2 million residents and oversee an economy valued at more than £25 billion a year.

The leaders of Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council, Torbay Council, and several district councils including South Hams and West Devon, have jointly written to Government ministers urging the development of a comprehensive devolution deal. 

This would grant enhanced powers and funding to the entire county.

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The proposed South West Peninsula MSA would replace the current Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority and is seen by council leaders as an “economic powerhouse” capable of driving forward the Government’s growth agenda.

Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Plymouth's role as a regional economic hub, combined with our vital national security responsibilities at Devonport, makes this devolution proposal essential for our future. The £4.4 billion MoD investment over the next decade, alongside our strengths in advanced manufacturing and marine technology, demonstrates why we need the enhanced powers that only a mayoral strategic authority can provide. This is about ensuring Plymouth continues to punch above its weight on the national stage.”

Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council, added: “This is about giving our communities the tools they need to thrive. A mayoral strategic authority would unlock our region's exceptional potential in environmental intelligence, marine innovation and clean energy. We have world-class research institutions and innovative business clusters that, working together under local leadership, can position the UK as a global leader in these critical sectors.”

Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “The £2 billion tourism economy and the 33,000 jobs it supports across Devon and Torbay show what we can achieve when we work together strategically. A coordinated approach under a mayoral strategic authority would enable us to leverage all our tourism assets more effectively whilst addressing the housing pressures our coastal communities face. This is about creating an integrated approach that benefits all our residents and businesses.”

Councillor Mandy Ewings, Chair of the Devon Districts Forum, said: “This devolution proposal recognises that we need strategic coordination whilst preserving the local connection that makes our communities special. The mayoral strategic authority would enable us to tackle challenges like housing affordability and transport connectivity that cross traditional boundaries, whilst ensuring decisions remain rooted in our local democratic traditions.”

The leaders stress that their plan remains inclusive, leaving the option open for Cornwall Council to join the authority in the future. 

They point to the region’s shared strengths in environmental resources, research, tourism, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.

Key aims for the South West Peninsula MSA include:

• Maximising environmental and marine innovation potential
• Creating an integrated transport network linking rural, coastal, and urban areas
• Developing coordinated skills training for key growth industries
• Addressing housing affordability and availability
• Supporting national defence infrastructure at Devonport dockyard

This joint letter marks a major step in local government reorganisation talks in Devon, with leaders committed to working quickly alongside Government officials to refine their proposals.