Reimagining Devon
(with Plymouth on existing boundaries)
Reimagining Devon: Believe in Better is a bold vision to create three unitary authorities for Devon, reflecting our diverse urban, rural and coastal communities.
These three new unitary councils would be:
Exeter and Northern Devon – covering East Devon, Exeter, Mid Devon, North Devon and Torridge. Population: 546,738
Torbay and Southern Devon – covering the South Hams, Teignbridge, Torbay and West Devon. Population: 426,155
Plymouth – on its existing footprint. Population: 268,736
The Reimagining Devon base proposal has been created to serve all residents of Devon, ensuring parity between the three areas, with a similar share of services and resources that provide the best outcome for every person living in Devon. It also better meets the government criteria for each council, serving around 500,000 people.
Our proposal, also known as the 4-5-1 plan, has been worked on in unison by seven of Devon’s districts to bring together this plan with one vision:
It is a plan that works for all of Devon – it acknowledges the strengths, challenges and aspirations found across the entire county
It will provide better service delivery tailored for each area - having three unitary authorities covering different geographies and communities, there is a greater chance for each to tailor strategic priorities, service delivery models and investment into each area – with a good understanding of delivering services across rural and urban areas
It will create a single point of contact to access services - With the confusion gone over who does what, you will know which council to contact for all your needs, and lead to greater accessibility for everyone
It ensures each council has a sound financial footing and provides value for money - the 4-5-1 plan will create savings and efficiencies, reduce duplication of work and deliver better services for the people living all across Devon. It is fully costed, with a robust financial plan that should ensure services provide Devon taxpayers with good value for money. The cost of reorganising would be paid back in under three years
It forges closer relationships between councillors and the public – three councils for Devon will mean more identifiable and responsible local councillors, and strong local leadership. It will ensure local voices are heard and actively shape the decisions being made in your area
It encourages economic growth - Reimagining Devon aligns the three unitary authorities around Devon’s major economic hubs and emerging economies, meaning each area can thrive and has potential to grow with a balanced economy and tax base
It improves the joining up of public sector services - The 4-5-1 plan would make it easier for councils, the NHS, police and other key public services to work together around shared local priorities. It would break down existing silos and promote joined-up delivery across health, social care, education, housing and community service. Councils would create closer partnerships and co-ordinate more effectively, leading to better services for everyone
It isbuilt on an understanding of people and place -Reimagining Devon would see decisions made close to the people they affect, and services shaped around communities, ensuring all of Devon’s communities get the tailored support that they need. It respects natural boundaries such as Dartmoor National Park, ensuring that development is sustainable
