That the Council’s proposal for LGR be submitted to Government.

Firstly, to give effect to the decision made by Council on 20 November 2025. Secondly, to meet the Government’s request for LGR proposals. 

An alternative option would have been not to submit the proposal. This option was discounted as it would not be in accordance with the decision made by Council.  Additionally, proposals made by other councils would incompletely meet the interests, needs and wishes of Torbay’s residents.

This decision will be implemented immediately.

On 20 November 2025 Full Council considered a report on the submission of a proposal to Government for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Full Council approved the submission of a proposal, for a four unitary solution for geographic Devon:

-       Torbay to remain as a continuing authority on its current footprint,

-       Plymouth to remain as a continuing authority on an expanded footprint,

-       the creation of a new Exeter Authority covering the current Exeter City Council area and the surrounding area; and

-       the creation of a new Rural Devon Coast and Countryside Authority.

In doing so the Chief Executive was given delegated authority to make any further amendments deemed necessary to the proposal and submit the proposal to Government by the deadline of 28 November as set out in their Statutory Invitation (Minute 42/11/2025 refers). 

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