Exeter councillors back 'once in a generation opportunity'

Councillors have unanimously backed an interim submission that sets out Exeter’s case for becoming part of a new unitary authority, marking a major step towards potential local government reform across Devon.

At an Extraordinary Council meeting held at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), councillors from all parties approved the submission, which will now be sent to central government.

The proposed authority would include the City of Exeter and adjacent areas, with the aim of streamlining services, improving governance, and enhancing local decision-making.

The proposal acknowledges Devon’s unique geography and population spread, with two major urban centres in Exeter and Plymouth, balanced by rural and coastal communities.

It argues for up to four unitary authorities across the county to better reflect these differences and deliver more targeted services.

For Exeter, the move could be transformative. Council Leader Phil Bialyk said the city has a distinct identity and plays a central role in driving growth across the region.

“Exeter is very distinct from Devon’s rural and coastal communities – everybody knows that,” he said. “It is vital we retain our sense of place and prioritise economic growth, using the strength of our city as the catalyst for growth in the rest of Devon.”

He described the current moment as a “once in a generation opportunity” to improve services and governance for all Devon residents, adding: “We’re ready to work with neighbouring councils, town and parish councils and all the residents and communities they represent. Their input will be vital in ensuring reorganisation delivers on the ambition to empower local communities.”

The interim submission does not include proposed boundaries, which will be shaped through a full public engagement process beginning in April.

Feedback from residents, neighbouring councils, and community groups will help shape a full business case, which is expected to be completed by November 2025.

Chief Executive Bindu Arjoon said the proposed unitary council would reduce duplication, streamline governance, and improve service delivery across the board.

“Engaging with stakeholders and communities from April is a key priority, to ensure their voices are heard and their priorities understood,” she said. “The new unitary would be an essential step in delivering better services for residents.”

The proposal forms part of a wider national conversation about local government reform, aimed at improving efficiency and giving communities greater control over their services.