What is happening?
Devon is on the way towards greater local decision-making through devolution.
In recent years, Devon County Council and Torbay Council have worked together through the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA).
The next stage of this process is the proposed creation of a mayoral strategic authority (MSA) for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay. Leaders from councils across Devon have expressed support for developing a devolution agreement that would provide greater powers and investment opportunities.
What is a MSA?
A mayoral strategic authority is a partnership of local councils led by a directly elected mayor.
A mayor for Devon would have extra powers to co-ordinate their work with other public bodies and the private sector in key policy areas including transport, environment and education.
Local councils would focus on delivering day-to-day services, while the MSA would take the lead on long term planning across the county to boost economic growth and life opportunities. MSAs benefit from longer term funding settlements and also decide how to spend money devolved to them from central government.
The mayor would be a voice for Devon at a national and international level and have the power to convene, question and formulate policy based on Devon’s needs with a range of public bodies and private sector partners.
Why is Devon pursuing further devolution?
Devolution will bring decision-making closer to communities rather than being controlled centrally by government.
Council leaders have highlighted opportunities to support economic growth, improve transport connections, increase investment and build on Devon’s strengths in sectors such as marine technology, clean energy, environmental intelligence and tourism.
Current status
The DTCCA is developing proposals to expand its membership and apply to become a MSA. Plymouth City Council is consulting on whether to formally join the bid and the door remains open for Cornwall County Council to join as well.
No final decision has yet been made by government on the creation of a new mayoral authority for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay. Any proposal would need to follow the required approval process before it could be implemented in 2027 or 2028.
What would this mean for residents?
At this stage, council services remain unchanged and elections due next May will proceed on current boundaries.
As the proposals progress, residents will be kept informed and opportunities to engage in consultation and will be publicised.