The first step in a devolution deal for the South West was set to be rubberstamped by district representatives tonight (Thursday).

East Devon District Council (EDDC) members are being asked to sign off a draft bid which could eventually see the region gain more autonomy from Whitehall.

The council says that, if successful, the Heart of the South West partnership would mean greater control over spending on projects to help boost productivity and create jobs.

But critics have raised concerns over a lack of public involvement and consultation.

EDDC is one of 17 local authorities in the region which would be part of the consortium.

At a meeting in December, members set out a series of conditions of the council going ahead with the bid.

They include setting clear objectives for what EDDC hopes to achieve out of devolution and the setting up an ‘oversight group’ to monitor the process.

Members also resolved to push for an element of ‘rural proofing’, so rural areas would not be disadvantaged.