Up to 163,000 jobs could be created following Devon and Somerset devolution deal

A devolution plan targeting Devon and Somerset could potentially support the creation of 163,000 jobs and provide a £4bn uplift to the economy by 2030, business and council leaders in the area have argued.

A deal of this type would lead to plans to boost productivity and wages, improve road, rail and broadband links and enable construction of homes for the region’s growing population.

Along with an increase in jobs, devolution could also support construction of 179,000 more houses, higher wage levels, faster, more reliable rail services and 100 per cent superfast broadband coverage by 2030.

Steve Hindley, chair of the Heart of the South West LEP, said: "Businesses across the Heart of the South West are the driving force that will deliver transformational growth and are keen to be at the helm of a prospective devolution deal alongside local authority partners.

"We look forward to working with government and investors as we embark on this journey towards prosperity and increased productivity that will benefit not only the Heart of the South West but the UK economy as a whole."