East Midlands already leading the way on Devolution

The UK Government has today introduced a major new law – the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill – aimed at giving more power to local areas to make decisions and shape their futures. It builds on existing devolution deals, like the one already in place in the East Midlands and gives the Mayor of the East Midlands and local leaders stronger tools to deliver homes, jobs, transport, and community services faster and more effectively. 

Speaking about the new Bill, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “Here in the East Midlands, we’ve already begun delivering real change by building homes, improving transport, and helping people gain the skills they need for better jobs, thanks to the powers and funding secured through our historic devolution deal.

This Bill recognises that areas like ours are no longer in start-up mode. We’re delivering, we’re ready for greater responsibility and that’s why we’re pushing hard to secure an integrated financial settlement for the East Midlands, putting us on an equal footing with other parts of the country and giving us the long-term funding certainty we need to plan ahead with confidence.”

“The new Mayoral Development Orders and streamlined planning powers will help us move faster, cutting through delays, unlocking new housing, and delivering critical infrastructure in the places that need it most. The Bill recognises my vision for inclusive growth in every corner the region, focusing on community spaces, thriving high streets and support for local businesses.

“Crucially, it also puts more power in the hands of local people, something I’ve championed from day one. Our region knows its own potential better than anyone, and local voices should help shape how we grow.”

So, what does the bill do?  

• Gives more power to mayors to lead local growth through things like planning, housing, and infrastructure (e.g. through new Mayoral Development Orders). 

• Strengthens community rights, including a new Right to Buy for local pubs, shops, and sports grounds when they are at risk of being sold or closed. 

• Bans unfair rent clauses (Upward-Only Rent Reviews) to help protect small businesses on high streets. 

• Requires better neighbourhood involvement, so residents get more say in shaping their local area. 

• Improves council services by encouraging better cooperation across local councils and creating stronger regional bodies (Strategic Authorities). 

• Improves transparency in local government spending through a new Local Audit Office. 

What it means for the East Midlands

• The East Midlands is already delivering on many of these priorities through its devolution deal. 

• The Bill gives the Mayor and local leaders more tools to accelerate progress, especially in delivering homes, infrastructure and supporting local economies. 

• Communities will have more power to protect and shape their neighbourhoods. 

• It supports the region’s ambition to have even more control in the future over decisions that affect local people’s daily lives.