We need your help to shape the future of local government in Devon, by letting us know what matters to you in your community.

In December 2024, the Government set out its intention that all areas with two levels of local government (known as district and county councils) were required to develop plans for a single level of local Government (known as unitary authorities).

In March 2025, a proposal setting out our initial thoughts on the future of local government in Devon was submitted on behalf of all the district councils in Devon (except Exeter.) Now final proposals are being prepared and are due to be submitted to the Government in November this year.

Mid Devon’s preferred option for the future structure of council service delivery is known as the 1-4-5 plan and proposes:

• Retaining the Plymouth unitary authority on its existing boundary (1)
• A unitary authority combining the South Hams, Teignbridge and West Devon areas with Torbay (4)
• A unitary authority including Mid, East, North Devon, Torridge and Exeter (5)

This would mean the current councils of Mid Devon District Council and Devon County Council would no longer exist and your council services would be delivered by a single council.

But before we submit the final proposal with our district partners, we want to know what matters to you in your community and what the needs and aspirations of people living and working in the area are.

Cllr Luke Taylor, Leader of Mid Devon District Council, said:

“We want to put forward the best proposal for our Mid Devon communities. I believe the 4-5-1 plan is a better option as smaller unitary authorities are best placed to represent the communities they serve. It also helps preserve local representation that could be lost under a single Devon model. This engagement will ensure that future services, and how we deliver them, reflect the values and needs of our residents, businesses, and community groups. That’s why your input matters.”

Please take some time to complete the short survey which will close on Monday 11 August 2025.

If you need a paper copy of this survey, please contact communications@middevon.gov.uk or call 01884 255 255.