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.

Devolution to England’s cities and counties is high on the political agenda. In December 2024, the government published its English Devolution White Paper, setting out plans to ‘complete the map’ of English devolution, to deepen the powers of regional mayors, to put English devolution on a firmer constitutional footing, and to reorganise local government.  

Our devolution team produces research, events and commentary that shape the devolution policy landscape, making the case to government for how it should complete the job of English devolution. We also support places to make a success of devolution, including by sharing lessons about what works and how devolved powers can best be used to improve economic and social outcomes. 

How the next government should complete the job of English devolution

The English devolution agenda needs a reset. The government must extend devolution to 85% of England to deliver meaningful and balanced economic growth.

Read the report
The Liverpool city skyline at dawn.