August 2025
Change is on the horizon for how local services are delivered across Devon.
The government wants to abolish two-tier local authorities, where responsibilities are split between county councils, district, city and borough councils, and to replace them with single unitary authorities, bringing all services under one roof.
Read more about the proposed changes below and complete our survey to have your say on our future.
What’s changing?
There are several tiers of councils in Devon, and the structure changes depending on where you live. You can find out more on our website.
Currently, Devon County Council handles services like education, transport, and social care, while district, city and borough councils manage housing, planning, and waste collection.
Under the proposed reorganisation, a single unitary authority would take on all these responsibilities for a specific area. It means that the number of councils in Devon will be reduced, with district councils and Devon County Council ceasing to exist and unitary authorities, which combine services, formed.
Why change?
The current system of local government has served Devon for many years. However, increasing financial pressures, rising demand for services, and the need to work more closely together have prompted the government to re-evaluate how local councils are structured.
Earlier this year the government asked councils across Devon to explore how local government could be restructured to better serve communities.
Our new Leader, Councillor Julian Brazil, isn't particularly impressed with the process, but says it does give us an opportunity to look at how services are delivered.
Have your say
At the heart of this process is a commitment to doing what’s right for Devon, and the voices of its people are essential to shaping what comes next.
We want to hear from you on what should be considered during the reorganisation of Devon’s councils and services, and what matters most to ensure the best possible outcomes for people in Devon in the years ahead.
Your feedback will help shape local policies, services, and investments to reflect the needs and priorities of our community.
You can share your thoughts at one of our upcoming roadshow events in towns across the county, or by using our online survey, which is open until mid-October.
What happens next?
During the summer, efforts will focus on public engagement and the collection of feedback.
In the autumn, the responses gathered will be reviewed and used to develop proposals, which are scheduled to be submitted to the government by 28 November.
Following this submission, the government will take the lead in conducting a formal consultation on the finalised proposals.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, there is the potential for the implementation of new governance structures based on the outcomes of this process.
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