Devolution as process: institutional structures, state personnel and transport policy in the United Kingdom

Citation

Mackinnon D, Shaw J & Docherty I (2010) Devolution as process: institutional structures, state personnel and transport policy in the United Kingdom. Space and Polity, 14 (3), pp. 271-287. https://doi.org/10.1080/13562576.2010.532965

Abstract
Devolution has been described as a key 'global trend' over recent decades as governments have decentralised power and responsibilities to subordinate regional institutions. UK devolution is characterised by its asymmetrical nature with different territories granted different institutional arrangements and powers. This paper seeks to examine the role of state personnel in mobilizing the new institutional machinery and managing the process of devolution, focusing on transport policy. The research presented shows a clear contrast between London and Northern Ireland, on the one hand, and Scotland and Wales, on the other, in terms of the effectiveness of political leaders in creating clear policy priorities and momentum in transport

Keywords
decentralization; devolution; political power; power relations; transportation policy

Journal
Space and Polity: Volume 14, Issue 3

People

Professor Iain Docherty

Dean of Institute for Advanced Studies