At the Extraordinary Meeting of Torbay Council held last night, Torbay Council agreed to submit a proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Devon based on a four unitary council model. 

This would see us retain our existing boundaries, continuing as a distinct and successful unitary authority serving our coastal community.  Plymouth City Council’s boundaries would be expanded to cover its Growth Area, and a new Exeter Council would be created reflecting its 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.  

This process began with the publication of the English Devolution White Paper in December 2024, where the 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.  

Over the summer, we carried out extensive public consultation and stakeholder engagement to shape our proposal. The response was clear: 64% of participants expressed a preference for Torbay’s existing boundaries. This engagement was a key driver in shaping our proposal that will now be submitted to Government by 28 November. 

Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, said: 

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to our officers for their professionalism and dedication throughout this complex process, and to colleagues from across all parties for the constructive way they have engaged. Local Government Reorganisation has required collaboration, commitment, and a shared focus on what is best for our community. 

Over the past year I have worked closely with all Leaders across the County, and those conversations have helped build genuine relationships based on respect and a shared responsibility to deliver for our residents. These connections can only be a positive step forward. Although we have sometimes agreed to differ, there is a clear commitment from every authority to make whichever option the Government chooses work in the best interests of our communities. 

I am proud of the collective effort that ensures the voice of Torbay residents is at the heart of our proposal. I am also pleased that this proposal has now been supported by the Council and will be the one submitted to Government next week. After a year of dedicated effort and collaboration, we are proud to have reached this milestone — and we now await the Government’s response in spring 2026.” 

For more information on Local Government Reorganisation, visit: www.torbay.gov.uk/lgr/