Devon’s District Councils unite to propose new Local Government structure

Devon’s district councils have joined forces to develop a joint response to government plans for reorganising local government across the county.

In December 2024, the UK Government announced proposals to simplify local government structures in England. Under the plans, areas like Devon, which currently operates under a two-tier system of county and district councils, are being asked to put forward proposals for creating new unitary authorities that would combine these functions.

Since then, East Devon, West Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Mid Devon, North Devon, and Torridge District Councils, in consultation with Torbay Council, have been working collaboratively to shape a unified submission. Torbay is also preparing a separate proposal for consideration.

The districts’ joint proposal, known as the “4-5-1 model,” outlines the creation of:

• A unitary authority for West Devon, Teignbridge, South Hams, and Torbay

• A unitary authority for North Devon, Torridge, Mid Devon, East Devon, and Exeter

• Plymouth remaining as a stand-alone unitary authority

According to the councils, the proposed structure reflects Devon’s natural communities, travel-to-work areas, and economic geographies, and aims to deliver more coherent planning, stronger service delivery, and a unified voice for the county.

To ensure local connections remain strong, the proposal includes the introduction of community hubs designed to support access to essential services. It also aims to strengthen collaboration with town and parish councils, making local engagement more accessible and influential.

The councils say their proposal is based on a comprehensive, evidence-led process, involving joint analysis, independent financial modelling, and widespread engagement with residents, partners, and businesses.

Across Devon, 5,948 people took part in public engagement surveys, providing feedback that the councils say has been “central” to shaping their proposals.

In a joint statement, the leaders of the seven councils said:

“We are committed to creating councils that are built around people and place, reflecting the unique geography, economy, and identity of Devon and giving its residents services they can be proud of for generations to come. We have worked very hard across a wide geography and a range of political backgrounds to develop this plan.

“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.

“We want to thank our residents, businesses and wider stakeholders for their invaluable feedback throughout this process. Your views have been central to shaping our proposals and ensuring they are grounded in the lived experiences of Devon’s communities.”

The councils are now refining the details of their proposal in response to ongoing feedback and plan to hold further engagement sessions with stakeholders in the coming weeks.

The final case for change will be submitted to the Government by Friday, 28th November 2025.