Search this site:
DEVO EAST NETWORK LAUNCH - 5TH FEBRUARY
Why get involved with Devo East?
Devo East is a unique forum for political and business leaders and
professionals in the East of England to come together to share knowledge,
expertise, creative opportunities, network and be part of the debate on
devolution and what it can deliver. The Devo East Network provides for valuable exchange but is also a
place to have fun, network and learn.
We combine national expertise with a deep understanding of the East — from
market towns and rural economies to major growth corridors like Cambridge-
Norwich and the Thames Gateway. Our team works alongside local leaders to
move from strategy to action - building coalitions, shaping investment
propositions, and delivering tangible change for people and places.
What is Devo East?
Devo East is a new network dedicated to securing better outcomes for
people, places, and businesses across Eastern England. We believe the
East has been underpowered and underrepresented for too long — and
we’re here to change that.
With a major new devolution deal on the horizon - including the a
directly elected strategic mayor for Norfolk and Suffolk - the region
stands on the brink of real change. But change won’t happen by default.
Devo East is here to ensure the East makes the most of this moment:
with greater powers, investment, and a stronger, unified voice.
Gallery and Past Events.
Devo East Network Launch
On Thursday 5th February we hosted our Devo East Network Launch in Stowmarket.
We were joined by an expert panel of speakers including:
Jack Abbott MP, Ipswich
Simon Kaye, Director of Policy and Research, Re:State
Dotty McLeod, BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, Journalist and Presenter
Adam Fox, Prospective Mayoral Candidate, Greater Essex
Carli Harper, Prospective Mayoral Candidate, Norfolk and Suffolk
Gill Morris, Devo Agency, Executive Chair & Co-Founder
The consensus around the room was clear: the East is ready for greater devolution
and place-based power - despite delays to the process. We discussed everything
from infrastructure challenges, the huge opportunities presented by our clean
energy potential, and why its important that communities feel that they benefit
from clean energy.
Devo Agency co-founder Gill Morris importantly highlighted that when devolution
works, it brings pace. It lets people’s voices be heard and gives government a
clearer line of sight into what works on the ground. Accountability loops get
shorter. Investment starts to match local priorities. But none of this will happen
without collaboration and partnership - which the Devo East Network aims to
foster.
Read Paul Beckford’s event summary here: