Seizing the Devolution Opportunity: A Call for "Innomovation" in Local Government

Building on plans from the previous government, this UK Government’s long-anticipated Devolution White Paper signals a major shift in local governance, creating Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs) and moving from the traditional Parish, District, and County Councils to streamlined Unitary Authorities. This transformation presents a pivotal moment for local government leaders to embrace innovative thinking—what we at Innomovate call ‘innomovation’—to reshape communities, drive efficiencies, and truly make a difference in people’s lives.

Innomovation, we hear you say? Yes

Innovation + Motivation

With greater powers comes greater responsibility. The shift towards Unitary Authorities and MCAs offers unprecedented opportunities to shape places beyond traditional administrative boundaries. Councils must now think beyond the status quo, leveraging their new powers to create dynamic, future-proofed local economies, address climate challenges, and reimagine public services.

To maximise the benefits of devolution, councils must adopt a proactive approach to innovation, data-driven decision-making, and cross-sector collaboration. Digital transformation will be critical—smart city technologies, AI-driven analytics, and integrated transport networks can drive efficiencies and improve quality of life. Partnerships with the private sector, academia, and community groups will be essential in delivering tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of local populations.

The challenge is clear: councils must not simply manage the transition but lead it. Those who seize this opportunity will not only enhance service delivery but also position their regions as hubs of economic growth and social progress. By embracing ‘innomovation,’ local authorities can turn devolution from a structural change into a catalyst for meaningful, lasting transformation.

At Innomovate Consulting, we help local leaders navigate these changes confidently. The time to act is now, devolution is not just a policy shift; it is an opportunity to shape the future.

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