Putting people first in Exeter and Devon – time to have your say
Engagement is underway on the city council’s proposals for the future reorganisation of local government in Devon.
Councillors backed proposals for the geography for a potential new unitary authority which includes the city of Exeter and surrounding areas at an Extraordinary Council meeting.
The city council is proposing:
- An urban unitary council for Exeter and the surrounding areas
- An urban unitary council for Plymouth and adjacent Parishes
- A rural and coastal unitary council for the remainder of Devon
The restructure is intended to create financially viable, efficient authorities aligned to geography, population and economic potential, recognising the distinct needs and identities of urban and rural areas.
It follows a recent decision by the government to abolish two-tier authorities – areas where some services are run by district councils and some by county councils, as is currently the case in Exeter.
The government wants councils in Devon to work together and submit plans for reorganising local government by 28 November.
The 3 new unitary councils proposed for Devon would run all key services within the geography of the authority, like housing, education and adult social care.
The aim is to improve services and outcomes for residents, deliver value and enhance community involvement, for example, by working more closely with parish and town councils.
Council Leader Phil Bialyk said Exeter’s economic strength would help to ensure resilience and strengthen the region against economic shocks.
He said: “Reorganisation presents a once in a generation opportunity to reshape public services to improve outcomes for residents, address inequalities and deliver value for money.
“Exeter is the regional capital and acts as the engine for growth of our dynamic and diverse urban and rural area and our important market towns.
“By joining forces with key locations close to the city we can accelerate growth and allow communities to thrive in Exeter and the surrounding areas and in the whole of Devon.
“The geography has been carefully chosen – but now it’s very important that residents have their say on the future of local government in Devon.”
Exeter City Council’s Chief Executive Bindu Arjoon said: “A lot of work has gone into these proposals which we think are right not just for Exeter and the surroundings areas but for the whole of Devon.
“We are now very much looking forward to engaging with residents, district, town and parish councils and stakeholders through the county on these exciting proposals.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for change and it is important that we get it right – that’s why we need to hear from our communities about what’s most important to them.”
Public engagement began on 15 August and will run until 26 September.
For the full details and to take part and ensure your voice is heard visit: exeter.gov.uk/lgr
