Devon residents have one week to comment on mayoral plans

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 16:32 · Archive

A six-week public consultation on whether Devon, Torbay and Plymouth should have a directly elected mayor closes on Wednesday, October 28.

Residents and businesses in Devon, Torbay and Plymouth have one week left to share their views on proposals for a directly elected mayor. The six-week public consultation, which began on September 16, closes on Wednesday, October 28.

If the proposal goes ahead, a new mayor would oversee strategic policy areas such as transport, with devolved spending powers from central government. The combined authority would represent an economy worth £33.1 billion per year. The consultation asks the public whether they support Plymouth joining a mayoral strategic authority, their views on having a directly elected mayor, and which priorities the mayor should focus on.

Counsil leaders have emphasised the benefits of the proposal. Councillor David Thomas, chair of the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority, said the plan gives 'a stronger voice with Government and a greater opportunity to secure investment for our communities'. Councillor Julian Brazil, vice-chair and leader of Devon County Council, stated that mayoralty is 'about bringing more power, funding and decision-making closer to the people and places affected by it'.

Under the plans, existing councils would continue to deliver services including bin collections, schools, social care, housing and planning.

How it is being reported

• One week left to have your say on directly elected mayor for DevonThe six-week public consultation, which began on September 16, will close on Wednesday, October 28.Exmouth Journal · 21 Oct, 16:10
• Devon residents have one week left to share views on mayoral plansDevon residents have one week left to share their views on the county's bid to become a Mayoralty, with the consultation set to end next Wednesday, October 28.North Devon Gazette · 21 Oct, 16:09

In this story: Devon · Torbay · Plymouth · Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority · David Thomas · Julian Brazil

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