Plymouth set to be transformed by new elected mayor deal

Plymouth: Exciting news is brewing in Plymouth! There’s a plan for a new regional authority with an elected mayor for Devon and Cornwall. This could really shake things up for the city. Stuart Elford, the chief executive of Devon Chamber of Commerce, is all in on this devolution plan. He believes it could create a South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority, which sounds pretty cool.

Elford mentioned that this proposal won’t take away local council control in Plymouth. Instead, it could open the door to a lot of government funding. Plus, it would give the region a stronger voice in Westminster, which is something we could definitely use.

Recently, Plymouth City Council held an urgent meeting to support the creation of this new authority, covering Plymouth, Devon, Torbay, and Cornwall. While some folks had their doubts, Elford is calling for everyone to back the plan. He’s convinced that it’s the way to go if we want to secure priority funding and not get left behind.

He emphasized that this new authority would be an extra layer of local government, not a replacement. It’s all about getting more money to improve our community. Elford urged everyone to set aside personal politics and focus on the bigger picture. This plan would keep our local identity intact while giving us access to funding we might miss otherwise.

Plymouth City Council is moving forward after the Labour Government released the English Devolution White Paper. This could lead to a bill in Parliament this year, aiming for mayoral elections in 2026 and a new council structure by 2027.

The council is keen on establishing the South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority, led by an elected mayor. They’ve assured that Plymouth will remain self-governing and have a say in the regional strategy.

Cllr Evans highlighted that devolving powers and funding to local decision-makers would help tackle key issues like improving roads, public transport, education access, health inequalities, and building new homes. He stressed the importance of seizing this opportunity for more powers and funding.

He also pointed out that while Plymouth, Devon, Torbay, and Cornwall have their unique cultures, they share geographic traits and economic ties. By forming this strategic authority, they’d represent a combined population of 1.8 million, ensuring that all communities have a voice.

This could unlock significant opportunities for residents and businesses, making it a once-in-a-generation chance for regeneration and renewal in the region.