Torbay makes its case to stay distinct under major council reforms

Torbay has officially told the Government its preferred plans under the huge shake-up of councils.

The local authority has formally submitted its proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Devon to Westminster following agreement at the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council.

The proposal is based on a four unitary council model:

- Torbay Council would retain its existing boundaries, continuing as a distinct and successful unitary authority serving its coastal communities.

- Plymouth City Council’s boundaries would be expanded to cover its Growth Area.

- A new Exeter Council would be created, reflecting the city’s growing economic and regional influence.

- A new Rural Devon Coast and Countryside Authority would form the fourth unitary, ensuring that together all four councils can respond effectively to the diverse needs of residents across urban, rural, and coastal areas.

Read next: Have your say on Torbay’s future as Local Plan goes out to consultation

This submission marks the culmination of a process that began with the publication of the English Devolution White Paper in December 2024, where Government outlined its ambition to simplify local government by replacing the current two-tier system of district and county councils with fewer, single-tier unitary authorities.

These new councils would be responsible for delivering all local services within their areas. During the summer, Torbay Council undertook public consultation and stakeholder engagement to inform its proposal.

The outcome was decisive: 64 per cent of respondents favoured retaining Torbay’s current boundaries. This strong level of support played a central role in shaping the proposal that has now been submitted to Government.

Council leader David Thomas said: "Today marks an important milestone as we formally submit Torbay’s proposal to Government. I am proud that the collective effort has ensured the voice of Torbay residents is at the heart of this submission.

"We now look ahead to the next stage of the process and await the Government’s response in spring 2026, confident that Torbay’s case has been clearly and strongly made.”

The proposal is available online: www.torbay.gov.uk/lgr/proposal/