Devon’s district councils have published a new reorganisation blueprint to reshape how local government works across the county.
The joint proposal follows the Government’s call to simplify England’s two-tier system, which currently separates county and district councils.
Working together, East Devon, West Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Mid Devon, North Devon and Torridge district councils – in consultation with Torbay Council – have crafted a 4-5-1 model: a plan that would see two new unitary authorities created, with Plymouth remaining independent.
One authority would unite West Devon, Teignbridge, South Hams and Torbay; the other would bring together North Devon, Torridge, Mid Devon, East Devon and Exeter.
The proposal, which benefitted from consultations with more than 5,900 residents, partners and businesses, also includes new community hubs aimed at ensuring people can still access vital services locally.
In a joint statement, the councils’ leaders said: ‘Our proposal aims to create a more effective and financially sustainable local government for Devon by aligning council boundaries with real communities and local economies. The new structure will deliver better, more integrated high-quality public services, while ensuring decisions are made closer to residents and reflect local needs.’
Last month, Devon County Council announced proposals to create a single unitary authority covering the whole county as part of its reorganisation plans.
Torbay Council is currently working on its own submission.
Want to learn more about local government reorganisation? Check out: Local Government Reorganisation: What It Means and Why It Matters.
