ADEPT response to the English Devolution White Paper
ADEPT has responded to the government’s English Devolution White Paper.
Ann Carruthers, President of ADEPT, said:
“ADEPT welcomes the government's decisive approach to devolution as outlined in the English Devolution White Paper. This commitment to reorganising local governance comes at a critical moment when councils are facing unprecedented financial challenges and complex service delivery demands.
“The clear intent to deliver reorganisation with a mandate behind it, if necessary, presents a strategic opportunity to address long standing issues facing local government.
“ADEPT recognises devolution as a critical opportunity to reshape how local government operates, enabling more responsive, efficient and innovative approaches to addressing the complex challenges facing our regions. We believe in the fundamental potential of localised decision making to unlock economic growth, improve public services and create more resilient, vibrant communities.
“By creating strategic authorities that align with the areas where people live and work, we can develop more holistic, effective approaches to critical challenges such as housing, transport and economic development. Crucially, the White Paper highlights the importance of environmental and climate leadership, empowering local government to drive sustainable solutions and climate resilience.
"The potential to devolve more powers to local leaders, particularly in strategic planning and infrastructure development, represents a significant step towards more responsive local governance.”
