The Prospect Podcast Does devolution help builders or blockers?
Feb 3, 2026
Joe Harrison, United Utilities senior rep experienced in regional water planning. Declan Burke, SSE executive focused on the energy transition and networks. Claire Walfour, Mott MacDonald systems planner for infrastructure and housing. Susan Hinchcliffe, Bradford leader with hands-on devolution delivery. They discuss devolution’s role in local decision-making, infrastructure interdependencies, rising water and electricity demand, and practical delivery and funding challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Build Relationships Before Rules
- Prioritise relationship-building over endless codified agreements to make devolution work.
- Susan Hinchcliffe advises spending time building trust and practical ways of working across partners.
Homes Need Early, Integrated Place Planning
- Housing outcomes depend on early, place-based planning that considers energy, water and climate risks.
- Claire Walfour argues regional planning better aligns infrastructure with local needs and environmental constraints.
Electrification Will Greatly Increase Power Demand
- Electrification will drive substantial extra electricity demand by 2035, from EVs to industry and data centres.
- Declan Burke warns regions must plan capacity, networks and cluster locations to meet new demand.