Cornwall likely to get own devolution deal - MP

Cornwall could have powers over housing, infrastructure, transport and economic development

Cornwall has secured a political victory after the government confirmed it would not pursue a merger with Devon, and would instead likely offer a bespoke devolution deal.

Communities secretary Steve Reed told Cornwall Council leaders the agreement respected Cornwall's unique identity and would not require an amalgamation with neighbouring authorities.

The move comes after a year of cross-party campaigning by Cornwall's MPs, who pushed back against Labour's preference for regional mayor-led authorities, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

Reed said the government "recognises the strong enthusiasm in Cornwall for devolution and the benefits it provides".

He said the government was "minded, on an exceptional basis" to "explore designating the council as a Single Foundation Strategic Authority", with responsibilities for transport, housing and economic development.

All six Cornish MPs – four Labour and two Liberal Democrat – have welcomed the move, which has been confirmed in a letter to Cornwall Council's senior leadership by Reed.

Reed's letter said: "Any designation would be subject to Royal Assent of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill and parliamentary approval of the necessary secondary legislation, before unlocking the powers and functions available at that level of the Devolution Framework and starting Cornwall on its journey to deeper and wider devolution."

He said the government would provide further information in due course.

Council leader Leigh Frost said the deal was "a step in the right direction".

"We've hammered home the reality that Cornwall is unique," he said.

"We have our own unique challenges, from being on the periphery and completely bounded by water on three sides.

"It's really pleasing that the government has committed to opening that conversation to a deeper level."

He confirmed there would be no mayor and said "they know very clearly that I'm not interested in a mayor for Cornwall".

"I don't think it's the right fit."

Labour MP Noah Law said he was "delighted" the government "recognises Cornwall's right to define its own future".

Andrew George, Liberal Democrat MP for St Ives, said it was "just a step on the road to Cornwall having a far greater say in the future shaping of our services and communities".