Devolution shifts planning and fiscal powers to English regional leaders

Devolution in England is transitioning from policy discussion to a significant force in regional planning and economic management. The UK government is committing to transferring greater powers, funding, and decision-making responsibilities to mayors and combined authorities, marking a major shift away from centralized control in Westminster.

A financial devolution roadmap is expected in October, with plans for regional leaders to retain a larger share of business rates starting in spring 2027. This shift aims to allow local authorities to better align planning with infrastructure, transport, and economic development.

As local leaders gain proximity to power and a direct financial stake in their regional economies—including proposals for mayors to retain a share of local income tax—there is an increasing emphasis on the need for localized economic intelligence. Experts suggest that for these new powers to drive growth, decisions must be based on specific local data regarding high streets, visitor economies, and commuter flows rather than national averages.