Working to make government more effective

Working to make government more effective

Leeds

Devolution to England

We evaluate devolution to England’s cities and regions, and make the case for a more coherent approach to English subnational government.

Since 2015, powers over transport, skills, housing and more have been transferred from Whitehall to local leaders in many parts of England. The government is committed to continuing this process, extending devolution to all parts of England that want it. The Labour Party also promises further devolution should it return to power.

Our research assesses the success of English devolution, evaluates the impact of metro mayors and combined authorities, and identifies how devolution could be strengthened. We advocate for a more coherent set of powers for mayors and other local leaders as well as simpler funding arrangements. We also work to improve the capacity and effectiveness of devolved institutions.

Key explainers

30 MAY 2019 Explainer

Local government

The local government system varies in many ways between the four nations of the UK. We explain the structure and political balance in each nation.

06 MAR 2023 Explainer

English devolution

What is the history of English devolution? How much of England has devolution? Which powers are devolved?

The art of the devolution deal

Too little attention has been paid to how devolution deals are negotiated and implemented and how Whitehall should support them.

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Angel of the North

Devolution to city regions

20 JUN 2022 Explainer

Devolution to Greater Manchester

In November 2014, a ‘devolution deal’ was agreed between the UK government and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).

15 NOV 2021 Explainer

Devolution to the West Midlands

In November 2015, a ‘devolution deal’ was reached between the UK government and seven local council leaders in the West Midlands metropolitan area.

13 APR 2022 Explainer

Devolution to South Yorkshire

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has four constituent councils: Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotheram and Sheffield.

23 MAY 2022 Explainer

Devolution to the North of Tyne 

In November 2018, a ‘devolution deal’ was reached between the UK government and the leaders of Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland councils.

Net zero and devolution: The role of England’s mayors in the climate transition

The UK government’s current top-down approach to net zero has hamstrung locally elected mayors’ efforts to deliver net zero.

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Manchester tram stop exchange