Final call for Torbay residents to shape Devon’s council shake-up

Torbay residents are being urged to have their say on the future of local government in Devon before a major consultation closes later this week.

The consultation, led by the UK Government, will run until midnight on Thursday 26 March 2026 and seeks views on proposals to reshape how councils operate across the county.

It centres on plans to replace the current two-tier system of district and county councils with a smaller number of single-tier unitary authorities responsible for all local services.

One proposal, put forward by Torbay Council, would see four unitary councils created across the area. This includes Torbay remaining as it is, alongside an expanded Plymouth City Council, a new Exeter Council and a new Rural Devon Coast and Countryside Council.

Council leader David Thomas said: “When this consultation opened in February, I acknowledged that I welcomed the inclusion of our proposal in the consultation. I believe our proposal is designed around real places, communities and economies. This will enable the resulting councils to make decisions closer to the communities they serve."

He added: “Our proposal will mean that councils are more responsive to the needs of different places – with Torbay, Plymouth and Exeter empowered to lead on urban priorities and the new Rural Devon Coast and Countryside Council focussing on the distinct needs of dispersed rural and coastal communities, market towns and villages.

“I would like to encourage you to have your say on this consultation. It is important that people who would be affected by any changes make their views clear to Government. This will help them understand the impact each proposal could have before they reach a final decision.”

Residents can find full details and take part in the consultation online, while paper copies are also available at libraries in Torquay, Paignton, Churston and Brixham.

A final decision from the Government is expected in July 2026.