The District Councils’ Network has responded to the letter from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to unitary and county councils seeking devolution proposals.

Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, Chairman of the District Councils’ Network, said:

“The District Councils’ Network welcomes the Government’s commitment to give back power to local communities in all parts of England.

“We want to see devolution to all places. The key is for devolution to empower the local leaders who know their places best and to be flexible to each area’s unique circumstances.

“District councils play a vital role in creating jobs, building homes, improving economic opportunity, addressing skills shortages and tackling inequalities. Our uniquely localised understanding of the economies of our towns and cities gives us a longstanding track record of attracting investment and makes us well placed to help deliver the Government’s national growth mission.

“We are eager for district councils to play a central role in driving devolution forward alongside our other local partners. We were pleased that the Government voted to support giving districts a constituent role in new devolution deals when it was in opposition. We look forward to positive discussions with the Deputy Prime Minister about how we can put this principle at the heart of a new wave of devolution that will bring jobs, growth, housing and prosperity to the communities we all serve.”