Synopsis: Economic development in Devon

Successful development of county-wide economic development partnership following two earlier failed attempts. Joint working on earlier foot and mouth crisis showed what could be achieved and the LAA created clear opportunity to develop such a partnership. Devon Economic Partnership was developed by a small sub-group building on earlier economic concordat and now operates with a deliberate delivery focus. A strong and independent chair has been instrumental in DEP’s establishment. Teleconferencing has been used to ensure regular action-orientated meetings across a large rural county and reduce carbon emissions. All four themes of the Enterprise and Economic Development 4th block of the LAA have benefited from DEP’s existence most notably the operation of four multi-agency worklessness pilots. Developmental work for the LAA has been a key activity of DEP. A range of softer partnership benefits are evident and lessons for developing this type of partnership. Future challenges include scaling up delivery and exerting increased influence externally.