Cornwall becomes the first county to gain devolution deal

As part of the government’s ongoing plans to decentralise decision making, Cornwall will become the first rural county to benefit from devolution - gaining more control and freedom to tailor services to local needs, support local businesses and create jobs.

The Cornwall devolution deal will give Cornwall council powers for franchising and improving bus services in the area – the first rural unitary authority to gain this power and also provide the Local Enterprise Partnership more of a say on boosting local skills levels. The deal will make it easier for the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership to integrate national and local business support services to help local firms grow, and will enable Cornwall council and the council of the Isles of Scilly to work with local health organisations on a plan for integrating health and social care services.

Detailed plans as to how the deal will be implemented will now be developed. Cornwall Council’s leader John Pollard said it was the ‘first stage of a longer journey’ on working towards getting the government to agree to all of the demands included in the ‘Case for Cornwall’ devolution proposals.

Cornwall Council Leader John Pollard said: “By creating a 'case for Cornwall' which was strong and realistic we have had a positive response from the government. Cornwall is, therefore, the first rural authority in the country to be given a devolution deal. This gives Cornwall greater powers over public sector funding.

“This is the first stage of a longer journey towards delivering the full case for Cornwall. We will now be working with partners to develop an integrated health and social care system, and deliver significant economic growth, with enhanced business support, greater access to employment and training opportunities, together with a much improved public transport network and more efficient use of public sector buildings.”

Communities Secretary Greg Clark said: “This deal is great news for Cornwall and I hope the first of many devolution deals for counties around the country as part of our long-term economic plan. This one nation government is determined to end the hoarding of power in Whitehall and put it in the hands of local people who know their area best.

“This historic deal ensures Cornwall has the powers and resources that will allow it to create the jobs and services it knows are best suited to the area and that will help local people and the county thrive.”

The Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill is currently passing through Parliament and puts in place the legal framework across the country that will make it simpler for devolving more powers to more places. The Bill sets out far reaching powers to be devolved to Greater Manchester and for creating a city-wide elected metro mayor who will provide strong leadership and a clear vision.

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