Devon’s eight district councils have joined forces to oppose the creation of a unitary authority for the county.

While a Devon and Torbay combined county authority was due to be created this year, Devon County Council may now push for a unitary council for the region, following the publication of the Government’s devolution white paper.

County councillors meet on Thursday (9 January) to consider a report on reorganisation and devolution from the chief executive, which is yet to be published.

By Friday, upper-tier councils must inform the Government if they wish to delay local elections due for May in order to speed up devolution plans.

Devon’s district leaders have warned against making ‘rushed’ decisions and argued that a single unitary council ‘risks diminishing local representation’.

They said they did not support postponing May’s county council elections, adding that priority devolution would not be suitable because it is designed for areas with ‘clear and agreed plans’.

The leaders added: ‘Any reform of local government in Devon should follow a period of proper consultation with residents, businesses, elected representatives, and stakeholders.

‘Looking at the evidence, we should decide collectively what is best for our area.’

The statement was made by:

Cllr David Clayton, North Devon Council

Cllr Paul Arnott, East Devon District Council

Cllr Phil Bialyk, Exeter City Council

Cllr Luke Taylor, Mid Devon District Council

Cllr Julian Brazil, South Hams District Council

Cllr Richard Keeling, Teignbridge District Council

Cllr Ken James, Torridge District Council

Cllr Mandy Ewings, West Devon Borough Council