Exeter joins forces with Plymouth and Torbay in proposal for new four-council Devon model

Exeter is set to play a central role in shaping the future of local government across Devon, as the city formally backs a new four-council model proposed in partnership with Plymouth, Torbay and a new coast-and-countryside authority.

The proposal, announced this week, outlines a major reorganisation that would see Devon governed by four unitary authorities — one each for Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay, and a new rural council covering the county’s smaller towns and villages.

The plan follows months of collaboration and public engagement, and aims to deliver more efficient services, stronger local decision-making, and sustainable economic growth across the region.

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Councillor Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, said the move reflects the city’s long-standing commitment to coordinated regional growth: “A lot of work has gone into developing these proposals for local government reorganisation, and during that work it has become obvious that the interests of Exeter and the rest of Devon will be best served by four councils.

“Devon’s urban areas are the engines of growth for the whole county, and this model recognises the unique characteristics of Devon’s urban and rural communities. In Exeter, we have cross-party support for our proposals, and we’ll continue to work closely with town and parish councils to ensure local communities are fully empowered by this reorganisation.”

The proposal argues that larger urban centres like Exeter act as economic drivers, creating jobs and attracting investment that benefit both city residents and neighbouring rural areas.

Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans described the new framework as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reshape how local government works across Devon, saying the model would allow councils to remain “close enough to stay accountable” while being large enough to sustain essential services.

Exeter’s next steps include discussions at a Special Strategic Scrutiny Committee on 3 November, followed by an Extraordinary Meeting of Council on 25 November and a Special Executive on 26 November.

If approved, the joint proposal will be submitted to the Government on 28 November for consideration