Business leaders across the South West are being urged to take part in a government consultation on the future of pan-regional partnerships (PRPs) amid concerns they could be scrapped following the Budget.
The Great South West - one such partnership covering Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset and the Isles of Scilly - has warned the loss of its status could impact its "voice in Westminster".
PRPs are collaborations between local authorities and the government to develop economic and infrastructure strategies, but could be axed under plans to deliver simplified devolution deals across the country.
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The Great South West was established by business, political and education leaders to make the case for the region as a powerhouse similar to those in the Midlands and up north. It was awarded formal PRP status in 2022 and formed a board led by Karl Tucker, chair of Yeo Valley Farms.
Unlike many other PRPs, the Great South West Partnership was developed locally to specifically address the lack of representation with central government.
Mr Tucker said: “This consultation is our chance to ensure a powerful, visible voice for the South West at Westminster whilst the ongoing discussions regarding further devolution in the region are completed and the ultimate structures are put in place.
"I urge every business, local authority, university, FE college and trade and community organisation to take part, and emphasise that there is a real risk that the South West will be left behind during this period if funding for the Great South West PRP is removed now.
"It is critical that we show the strength and unity of our region, and make clear that working together is the best way to drive economic growth, attract investment, and enhance infrastructure on behalf of our communities.”
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The government announced in its recent Budget that it will be holding a national consultation, running for four weeks from November 18 to December 16, on the future of PRPs such as the Great South West Partnership.
It comes as Labour moves forward with plans to deliver devolution across the country in deals which will see most areas represented by a mayor or combined authority. Discussions on potential devolution arrangements in the Great South West are in the early stages and being explored by local councils, but without a PRP the area would be without a regional voice in Westminster until then.
David Thomas, leader of Torbay Council and member of the Great South West Partnership board, said: "The Great South West Partnership has been instrumental in ensuring the region’s voice is heard on the national stage.
"This consultation is a pivotal moment to demonstrate the importance of a unified regional voice in driving investments and infrastructure which are critical to our region, as we continue to work on our devolution options. I urge all businesses, organisations and communities to take part, and help secure our economic growth and influence.”