Irrancca-Davies to push for devolution of the Crown Estate

DEPUTY First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies has pledged to continue to press the case for powers over the Crown Estate amid a growing chorus of calls for devolution to Wales.

- CHRIS HAINES

Mr Irranca-Davies supported devolving the Crown Estate, which owns much of the seabed around Wales as well as 50,000 acres of land ~ and has been estimated to be worth £850m.

Wales’ deputy first minister announced an expert panel will be established to advance the case and consider the practical consequences of how best to devolve the Crown Estate.

In a statement, he told the Senedd that devolution would be consistent with existing powers in Wales relating to planning, land and seabed management.

Mr Irranca-Davies, whose responsibilities include constitutional affairs, said: “We are clear that the Crown Estate should be the responsibility of the devolved government in Wales.”

He added: “It’s important the Welsh Government has the powers to pursue net zero in a way that retains wealth in Wales, where Welsh communities have a say and can feel the benefit”

He stressed that ministers will continue to make the case for devolution to Labour counterparts in Westminster who have committed to engaging with the expert panel.