'Epic chapter' for Devon as historic deal is signed
Signing the Torbay/Devon devolution deal (from left Alison Hernandez, Kevin Foster John Hart, Jacob Young, David Thomas, Anthony Mangnall). Picture courtesy: Guy Henderson 25.01.2024
A deal which will see Devon councils working together to access millions of pounds in government cash has been hailed as ‘a new chapter in an epic story’. Levelling Up minister Jacob Young visited Paignton ’s EPIC centre for high-tech innovation to rubber stamp a historic devolution deal which will bring together Devon County Council, Torbay Council and eight district councils.
More power will be given to what is called a ‘combined authority’ on issues such as adult education, local housing, net zero ambitions and training. If the deal is approved after public consultation, only Plymouth City Council will sit outside the new body. The city was originally due to be part of the arrangement but pulled out, saying it felt it could retain more power by staying independent.
Torbay Council leader David Thomas (Con, Preston) said: “It’s fitting that we are here at the Epic Centre today, because we have an epic story to tell. In Torbay we have £100 million in investment secured already for the three towns, and today we are writing a new chapter in that epic story.
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“We have a golden opportunity to conclude a deal that will lead to even more investment, more high-quality jobs, more training and more affordable homes all over Devon.”
And county council leader John Hart (Con, Bickleigh and Wembury) said the deal would encourage more people to invest in Devon, with jobs and homes for local people among the priorities.
He continued: “I’m sad that Plymouth isn’t with us, but we have still left an olive branch for them. We will keep the door open.”
The Devon and Torbay deal is the tenth set up by the government in the past two years. Mr Young told an audience of local politicians and business leaders: “This is another important step forward in our national mission to level up economic growth opportunities and create a better quality of life for all.
“It means local and central government working hand in hand, giving local leaders who know and love this county best the money and power they need to unleash this area’s great potential.
“It is the start of a new era of greater prosperity for the people of Devon and Torbay.”
The public consultation begins next month.