Laura Sharman 15 May 2015

'One size does not fit all' for devolution plans

The Government has been warned against adopting a ‘one size fits all’ devolution model, with the sector highlighting the needs of local areas in response to the Cities Devolution Bill.

While many in the local government sector have welcomed the extra powers offered in exchange for a change in governance, concerns over the limitations and risks of the plans have emerged.

The Local Government Association (LGA) urged the Government to ensure all areas benefit from extra freedoms and flexibilities, not just the major cities. Cllr David Sparks, chair of the LGA, all parts of the country ‘need greater freedom from Whitehall’.

‘We are now urging government to go further and set out a new settlement for all of England which devolves decisions on important issues like skills, housing, transport, care and infrastructure,’ he said. ‘This is vital if the economy is to prosper and good quality public services are to survive.’

The director general of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Nick Baveystock, added: ‘Government must therefore resist the desire for standardisation and instead be guided by the needs, ambition and capacity of each area. Local areas also need to rise to the challenge – demonstrating how they will make the best use of powers and contribute to UK wide goals.’

IPPR North agreed that smaller towns and cities are a crucial part of devolution and can help drive region’s growth is they ‘share in the benefits of new powers and prosperity’.

IPPR North director, Ed Cox, said: ‘We have long argued metro mayors are vital to build visible leadership and democratic accountability necessary for the more radical devolution of taxation and spending we want to see. But even in this arena, the chancellor needs to recognise that there is no one-size-fits-all model for metro mayors.’

The Federation for Small Businesses (FSB) also warned that rural areas should not be ‘bypassed’ when reallocating power and resources.

John Allan, FSB national chairman, said: ‘There are lessons to be learnt from the setting up of Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) which should not be ignored. Increased localism doesn't automatically lead to better outcomes. This requires strong governance arrangements to ensure accountability, transparency and local small business engagement.’

He added that the FSB did not support local variation in business rates as this could lead to confusion or increased costs for businesses.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Principal Transport Planner

Sheffield City Council
£45,718 to £49,764
Do you have considerable experience in the transport strategy and policy, and are you looking for your next career development opportunity? Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: Sheffield City Council

Senior Housing Options Advisor

Wyre Borough Council
£35,235 - £37,938
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our expanding Housing Options Team Poulton-Le-Fylde, Lancashire
Recuriter: Wyre Borough Council

Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor

Hyndburn Borough Council
National Living Wage (SCP2)
Hyndburn is a great place to work. Accrington, Lancashire
Recuriter: Hyndburn Borough Council

Service Manager, Children’s Homes Service

Durham County Council
Grade 16 £54,800 - £58,798 (Pay Award Pending). Potential earnings up to £61,298 per annum.
Lead with Purpose. Inspire Change. Transform Lives. Your Next Chapter Starts Here  Are you a visionary leader with a passion for making a lasting dif Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Licensing Enforcement Officer

Hyndburn Borough Council
£33,366 – £35,235 (Scale SCP 23-25) (plus 10% enhancement)
An exciting opportunity has arisen within our Licensing Department for an enthusiastic, organised and motivated Licensing Enforcement Officer. Accrington, Lancashire
Recuriter: Hyndburn Borough Council
Linkedin Banner