ResPublica - Devo 2.0: The Case for Counties

Devo 2.0: The Case for Counties was produced by ResPublica.

It sets out the case for a renewed programme of devolution focused on England’s counties and argues that the current two‑tier system and city‑led devolution model have stalled reform outside metropolitan areas, limiting counties’ ability to boost growth, reform public services and respond to fiscal pressures.

The report, supported by the County Councils Network (CCN), positions county councils and unitary councils as the natural authorities for strategic decision‑making, given their economic weight, service responsibilities and historic legitimacy.

The report finds that counties are major contributors to England’s economy and public finances but face structural constraints that fragment planning, housing, transport, skills and service delivery.

It proposes “Devo 2.0”: a flexible pathway allowing counties either to become single unitary authorities or to form county‑wide “Strategic Authorities” that integrate key functions across existing tiers without creating an additional layer of government.

This reform is presented as the prerequisite for meaningful devolution of powers equivalent to those enjoyed by city regions.

By aligning governance, finances and public services at county scale, the report argues that efficiencies, improved outcomes and stronger local accountability can be achieved.

CCN is presented as a central advocate for this county‑led model, enabling counties to unlock growth, reinvest savings locally and play a fuller role in national economic strategy.