Local Government Reorganisation
Putting People First in Exeter and Devon
The Government has asked councils in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay to submit proposals for local government reorganisation (LGR), including interim electoral arrangements for the new local authorities.
These proposed warding arrangements are intended to provide a safe, lawful and deliverable basis for elections to the new shadow authorities in May 2027. They are designed as transitional arrangements, enabling the new councils to be established and operate effectively from vesting day.
Final decisions on the number of councillors, ward boundaries, electoral arrangements and the content of any Structural Changes Order will be made by the Secretary of State and Parliament.
Following implementation of LGR, it is anticipated that the Local Government Boundary Commission for England will undertake a full, independent electoral review of the new authorities. This review would determine longer-term warding arrangements and levels of representation in the usual way.
The proposed interim warding arrangements for the 2027 to 2031 term are set out in the maps below. These proposals identify the wards within each new authority and the number of councillors proposed to represent each ward.
Expanded Exeter | Expanded Plymouth | Expanded Torbay | Combined Devon Wards Final
Our proposal
How our four-unitary model for Devon works, why boundaries need updating, and how this structure supports growth and strong public services.
Benefits of our proposal
The key improvements this model delivers for urban, rural and coastal communities - from simpler services to stronger finances.
What people told us
Insights from hundreds of conversations with partners, parish councils, organisations and local residents across Devon.
Empowering communities
How new Neighbourhood Area Committees and strengthened parish relationships will give people a greater voice in local decisions.
Understanding local government
How Devon’s current two-tier system works today - and why change is needed for clearer, simpler public services.
What is LGR?
A plain-English guide to local government reorganisation and the Government’s criteria for approving new council structures.
News and updates
Latest updates on the reorganisation process, government timelines and announcements.
Timeline
A step-by-step view of how reorganisation would unfold - from ministerial decisions to the creation of new councils.
Document library
A collection of all documents, reports and evidence supporting Exeter’s Final Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Devon.