Why devolution matters: The case of Cornwall

Article

Cornwall was one of the first areas to secure a devolution deal in 2015 and it remains the only non-metropolitan area with devolved powers in England. But six years on, with significant progress made, it is clear that Cornwall has now outgrown its original deal.

In a time of crisis and uncertainty, it is Cornish businesses, communities, civil society organisations and local government that have led the response and in the coming months and year, will lead the recovery. Real long-term devolution of powers and resources for Cornwall, enacted in parliament, would turbocharge these efforts and make a significant contribution to the national effort to build back better.

In this briefing paper we examine how dynamics of identity, difference and rurality have influenced devolution and its development in Cornwall and what can be learned from this experience for devolution in the future.

We explore the case for strengthening devolution in the UK, particularly in England and set out some key principles for the Devolution & Local Recovery White Paper, due later this year. We propose that a much stronger and tangible commitment to devolution for places like Cornwall in England, alongside a strengthening of devolved powers in the devolved nations and regions, can secure a united future for the UK. Our shared prosperity depends on a fairer share of power.

Related items

  1. An older man with a walking stick is sitting on a sofa having his temperature taken with a thermometer in his ear by a female nurse in uniform

    This time must be different: Overcoming barriers to social care reform

    Adult social care services across England are struggling to keep up with increased demand, let alone improve. But failure is not an option.
  2. Queen Square Bus Station on Hood Street in Liverpool city centre

    En route to renewal: Delivering better, greener buses

    Good buses drive a strong economy, healthy environment and thriving society. 
  3. Townhouses beside the railway on the viaduct with a running train in Durham, UK

    On track to prosperity: Great Northern Rail

    It’s time the North saw real change for better transport, delivering prosperity and better lives: a long-term plan for Great Northern Rail