Residents invited to have their say on the future of local government in Devon
Published: 01 July 2025
In December 2024 the Government announced plans to simplify the structure of local government across England. Areas such as Devon, which currently has a county council and district councils in a two-tier system, are being asked to develop plans to move to a single-tier unitary authority.
North Devon and Torridge district councils have been working with councils across Devon to work up proposals, and in March 2025 an interim plan was submitted on behalf of all Devon's district councils, except Exeter.
The proposal, known as the '1-4-5 Plan', includes:
- Keeping Plymouth as a standalone unitary authority
- Forming another unitary authority covering South Hams, Teignbridge, West Devon and Torbay
- Creating a new unitary authority combining East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon, Torridge and Exeter
Final proposals will be submitted to the Government in November 2025. Before then, the council would like to hear from residents, businesses and groups about what matters to them.
A survey will run until 11 August 2025. Responses will help shape the final proposal and ensure it reflects the needs of the communities of northern Devon.
Torridge residents can complete the survey online on the Let's Talk website. If you need this survey as a paper version or large print you can request this by emailing customer.services@torridge.gov.uk or by calling 01237 428700 option 9. Paper copies are available at Riverbank House, Bideford, EX39 2QG.