Deputy Leader of North Devon Council, Councillor Peter Leaver, has issued a statement on the UK government's decision to review local government reorganisation in Devon.

Councillor Peter Leaver, Deputy Leader of North Devon Council, said: "We are awaiting further detail from the government following the announcement of a review of plans for local government reorganisation (LGR).

“While it is clear the decision to pause the process is likely to affect the current timetable, we need to understand the full implications of the government's review before commenting further on what this means in practice.

“LGR is a landmark process that will affect all of Devon’s residents. We ultimately welcome the decision to pause and review the path we are on and make sure this significant change to local government will be for the benefit of everyone.

"A considerable amount of work has already been undertaken by councils across Devon, both before and since the government's decision to create four new unitary authorities. We will continue to work constructively with our partners while considering the implications of today's announcement and any further guidance from government.

“I would like to thank our officers who have been involved in this process to date. They have devoted a considerable amount of their time and effort to this project in addition to their day-to-day roles. I sincerely hope all the work that has been carried out will not simply be wasted, and we end up with a local government structure that benefits everyone.

"In the meantime, we remain focused on delivering services for our residents, businesses and communities as normal."

Elections scheduled for May 2027 will go ahead with existing district council boundaries.