West Devon reacts with 'deep disappointment' over Devon council shake-up decision
West Devon Borough Council has expressed deep disappointment after the government rejected its preferred local government reorganisation proposal in favour of a rival plan that will reshape council boundaries across Devon from 2028
“Deep disappointment” has been the reaction to the rejection of a local government reorganisation plan championed by West Devon Borough Council.
The government has selected the model put forward by Plymouth and Exeter councils, which would see the creation of four unitary authorities when Devon's district councils and county council are disbanded in 2028.
Under the shake-up, Plymouth, Torbay and Exeter will all have expanded boundaries, while the rest of the county will be served by a new Devon Coast and Countryside council.
West Devon, along with the county's other district councils, apart from Exeter, had favoured a model which it said "better met the strict criteria" set out by central government.
Council leader Cllr Mandy Ewings (Ind, Tavistock South West) said Thursday's announcement marked an important moment for Devon.
"I am deeply disappointed that the government did not choose the Reimagining Devon proposal.
"The government gave us strict criteria to follow to meet its requirements. Our officers at West Devon, along with colleagues across Devon's district councils, poured countless hours into creating a proposal that met those criteria and would have worked well for the people of Devon. However, the government chose to ignore this, which I find incredibly frustrating.
"However, the decision has been made, and we are committed to managing this transition carefully and responsibly so that communities experience stability throughout the process. Our focus now is firmly on ensuring that residents continue to receive the high-quality services they rely on.
"We will work constructively with our neighbouring district councils and with the government to shape the new arrangements in a way that reflects the needs and character of West Devon. Protecting local identity and making sure our residents' voices are heard will remain central to this process."
The Reimagining Devon model proposed the creation of two new unitary councils, alongside the retention of Plymouth as a unitary authority. One would have encompassed South Hams, Teignbridge, West Devon and Torbay, while the other would have brought together East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon, Torridge and Exeter.