The Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA) has taken a major step into delivery after approving a set of significant programmes at its Board meeting on 30 March. The decisions mark the end of the Authority’s first year and the beginning of a phase focused on improving transport, skills, energy, and long-term planning across the region.
The Board agreed a substantial scaleup of the DTCCA’s budget for 2026/27, enabling it to move from establishment into full operation. Funding will now support a wide range of devolved functions including transport, adult skills, strategic planning and economic development.
A major milestone was the decision to begin work on a Spatial Development Strategy. This long-term plan will set out how and where Devon and Torbay and (subject to final Government decision) the wider Peninsula will grow, covering new homes and employment space, and the infrastructure needed to support them, such as transport, energy, water and digital connectivity.
Approval was also given to the 2026-27 transport capital programme and the draft Local Transport Delivery Plan, which together enable multimillion pound investment in roads, bus services, active travel and electric vehicle infrastructure. Specific schemes will be announced separately as they progress and will be delivered in partnership with Devon County Council and Torbay Council.
In a significant development for the region’s workforce and economy, the DTCCA confirmed the commissioning framework for the devolved Adult Skills Fund. From September 2026, the Authority will take on responsibility for post19 skills, backed by an anticipated £13.1 million annual budget, with further skills capital funding expected.
The Board also endorsed the next steps in its new partnership with Great British Energy (GBE). This collaboration will help bring forward locally owned and community energy projects, reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy bills for local services and supporting the region’s netzero ambitions.
Together, these decisions demonstrate the DTCCA’s growing capability and its commitment to delivering real-world benefits across Devon and Torbay.
Cllr David Thomas, Chair of the DTCCA, said:
“Our recent board meeting was an important moment for Devon and Torbay. Devolution means we now have far greater influence and control over how public money is spent here. Decisions that were previously made elsewhere are now being shaped locally. With new powers over transport, skills, planning and our partnership with Great British Energy, the DTCCA is moving decisively into delivery and ensuring investment genuinely reflects local priorities.”
Cllr Julian Brazil, Vice-Chair of the DTCCA said:
“Today’s decisions show exactly why further devolution – including moving toward a mayoral model – is both desirable and necessary. By demonstrating that the DTCCA can take sound, strategic decisions for local people, we strengthen our case for more powers and greater local control. This is about giving Devon and Torbay the tools to shape our own future, and today’s progress is vital evidence that we’re ready for that next step.”