As Labour sets out its devolution plan, businesses across the East of England have a unique opportunity to shape the region’s economic future. With local elections postponed and major devolution deals under discussion, now is the time for business leaders to engage with policymakers, influence economic strategies and position themselves for long-term success.

In response, PLMR and the Eastern Powerhouse are inviting business leaders, investors and decision-makers to join an exclusive webinar on Tuesday 25th February (2pm), hosted by the Eastern Powerhouse, entitled: ‘Devolution in the East: Opportunities, Challenges, and What It Means for Business’.

Panellists include:

• Kevin Craig, CEO, PLMR. Kevin founded PLMR in 2006 which has grown to become a UK Top 50 communications firm. PLMR Genesis, the East of England’s largest communications agency, is headquartered in Ipswich and has worked with local businesses and communities across the region for over 15 years. Kevin has twice been a Labour Parliamentary Candidate and served 17 years in local government as a Labour Councillor.
• Trevor Holden, Managing Director, Broadland District Council and South Norfolk Councils. Trevor has been a Local Authority Chief Executive for over 14 years. He is an experienced senior leader of large and complex organisations across both the public and private sector.
• Mark Morrin, Head of Research, Eastern Powerhouse. An experienced policy and research strategist who works with businesses and public bodies to develop successful growth strategies.

The discussion will explore how devolution can unlock investment, drive innovation and create opportunities for businesses across the region.

Why should businesses care about devolution?

The East of England is now central to the UK’s devolution agenda, with Greater Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk added to the Devolution Priority Programme. But what does this mean for businesses? This exclusive webinar will break down the potential risks and opportunities of devolution, covering:

• The impact of postponed local elections and the road to mayoral governance in 2026
• How devolution can shape transport, infrastructure and economic growth
• What businesses need to know – from investment potential to regulatory changes
• Lessons from other devolved regions and what the East can learn

What devolution means for the East of England

The region is set to receive enhanced powers and funding in key areas including adult skills and workforce development, housing and planning regulations, and transport and infrastructure investment. These changes will introduce new strategic authorities, each led by an elected Mayor, shifting toward localised decision-making.

This brings major benefits for businesses, such as: faster, localised decision-making on economic policies and infrastructure; new funding opportunities for workforce development and innovation; and closer relationships with policymakers to shape long-term regional strategies

Why businesses must act now

With devolution set to reshape governance and investment priorities, businesses that engage now will be best positioned to secure funding, influence decisions and drive growth.

Our recent blog, Postponed Local Elections: What It Means for Businesses in the East of England, outlines key insights on how businesses can take advantage of this transition:

• How devolution and local elections impact business opportunities
• Ways to engage with policymakers and secure investment
• Strategic PR and communications approaches to stay ahead of policy changes

Secure your spot: register for the webinar now

At PLMR, we help businesses navigate complex political landscapes with confidence. Our expertise in public affairs, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications ensures that clients remain at the forefront of key policy changes – driving influence and maximising their impact.

Register for the Eastern Powerhouse webinar on Tuesday 25th February (2pm): Sign up here.

For tailored communications strategies that help your business thrive in a changing policy environment, get in touch today.