'Historic' deal promises Torbay millions in funding and greater autonomy

Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young met councillors from across Torbay and Devon to sign a ‘historic’ devolution deal between Devon County Council, Torbay Council and the eight council districts.

Hailed as a “new chapter in an epic story”, the agreement will bring access to millions of pounds of government cash as well as a combined county authority taking on new responsibilities in adult education, local housing, green innovations and net zero ambitions.

The deal to see these powers and funding transferred from Whitehall to local government in Devon and Torbay will now enter a phase of public consultation. If approved, the deal will be the tenth of its kind set up by the government in the last two years.

The new combined county authority will comprise of three councillors from Devon County Council, three from Torbay, two from the districts and representatives for business and education.

Working with business and education leaders, the authority will use the £14m of available funding to accelerate Devon and Torbay’s transition to a net-zero economy and capitalise on expertise in environmental science and technologies, with a focus on new green jobs, homes, skills, and business growth, seeking to attract additional private sector investment into these areas.

Torbay Council leader David Thomas (Cons, Preston), said that the deal presented a ‘new future’ for Torbay.

He said: “It is fitting that we are here in the epic centre. Because we have an epic story to tell. We already have over £100 million of investment secured for our three towns and today we are writing a new chapter in that epic story.”

He added: “We have a golden opportunity to conclude a golden deal that will lead to even more investment. A real focus on even more high-quality jobs and training, a focus on even more affordable homes across Devon, public transport and green prosperity.

“The proposals today, we will take back to our councils, we will consult with the public and our partners. They are part of this new future and this new future starts today.”

Plymouth City Council pulled out of the arrangement after its leader, Tudor Evans branded it 'unreasonable and unrealistic' and that the city could retain more power by remaining independent.

Devon County Council leader John Hart said: “I’m sad that Plymouth isn’t with us, but we have left an olive branch for them. We will keep the door open.”

Levelling Up Minister Jacob 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.”