What Will Devolution Mean for Local Government in England?

January 31, 2025

The prospect of devolution in England represents a significant shift in the structure of local government, aiming to transfer substantial powers from central authorities to local strategic councils led by elected mayors. This new paradigm is outlined in the government’s recent White Paper, which envisions a radical transformation whereby every area in England will be governed by a mayor. These mayors will wield significant devolved powers over key sectors such as transportation, skills development, and public health. By decentralizing authority, the government intends to foster stronger regional governance, echoing successful examples previously seen in cities like Manchester and Birmingham. One core aspect involves the creation of unitary authorities designed to streamline council services, ensuring more efficient governance and better-served communities.

The Push for Regional Power

Local leaders have long championed the cause of regional power, arguing that decision-making should be closer to the communities it affects. The White Paper extends this principle, laying the groundwork for new authorities to emerge from the merging of county and district councils. These newly formed strategic authorities will oversee various council services within a unified framework, serving populations of at least 500,000. The process would involve a significant reorganization, with local councils aspiring for the benefits of increased autonomy and streamlined governance. This initiative is not just limited to larger cities but aims to encompass all areas of England, ensuring a uniform approach to devolution, aiming to harness local knowledge and expertise.

Kent has emerged as a priority area in the government’s devolution plans. Key entities such as Kent County Council (KCC) and Medway are actively campaigning to ensure their inclusion in this new framework. Should these efforts succeed, Kent would witness an election for a county-wide mayor as early as May 2026, alongside the formation of a county combined authority. This development could significantly enhance local governance, providing a clear mandate and greater resources for the elected officials. The structured approach involves requesting Kent’s 14 councils to submit a reorganization scheme. An initial indicative proposal is expected by March 2025, with a refined version slated for the autumn, followed by formal consultations.

The Mechanics of Change

Despite the ambitious proposals outlined in the White Paper, it is essential to note that no decisions have been finalized at the local level. The forthcoming transformation necessitates comprehensive dialogue among residents, councillors, and staff to ensure that the newly envisioned structures are well understood and suitably adapted for local needs. Government consultations will be crucial in shaping these new frameworks and ensuring that they dovetail smoothly with existing councils’ operations and services. According to the proposed timeline, shadow unitary councils might be elected by May 2027. These councils will bear significant responsibility, including appointing senior officers, managing staff transitions, identifying essential facilities, and setting initial budgets. The goal is to render these new councils fully operational by 2028, marking a new era in local governance.

Amid these developments, it’s business as usual for places like Ashford, which continue to focus on crucial local priorities, including their Local Plan and affordable housing initiatives. Councillors are reminded of their obligations to their constituents, emphasizing the importance of sustained leadership and representation during this transitional period. Maintaining focus on current priorities while preparing for future changes is essential for a smooth transition. The balanced approach indicates clear readiness to adapt to upcoming reforms without compromising ongoing projects and community commitments.

Charting the Future Course

While the ambitious proposals in the White Paper are noteworthy, it’s important to recognize that no final decisions have been made at the local level. The upcoming changes require in-depth conversations among residents, councilors, and staff to make sure that the new structures are well understood and adapted to the community’s needs. Government consultations will play a vital role in shaping these frameworks and aligning them with existing councils’ services and operations. According to the proposed timeline, shadow unitary councils may be elected by May 2027, tasked with vital responsibilities such as appointing senior officers, managing staff transitions, identifying essential facilities, and setting initial budgets. The aim is to make these new councils fully operational by 2028, ushering in a new era of local governance.

During these transformations, areas like Ashford continue to prioritize current needs, focusing on the Local Plan and affordable housing initiatives. Councilors must remain committed to their constituents, ensuring strong leadership and representation during this transitional phase. Balancing current priorities with preparations for future changes is crucial for a smooth transition, reflecting a readiness to adapt to reforms without neglecting ongoing projects and community obligations.

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