North Devon Council Leader, Councillor David Clayton, has issued a statement on the Government consultation on the reorganisation of local government in Devon.
Councillor David Clayton said: "I am urging residents, organisations and businesses across North Devon to take part in the Government consultation on the reorganisation of local government in Devon, which closes on 26 March.
“The consultation is seeking views on proposals that would change how council services are delivered across Devon from 2028, replacing the current two-tier system of county and district councils with new unitary authorities. District councils currently deliver essential local services including waste and recycling collections, planning, environmental health, housing and homelessness, all shaped around local need and demand. They also provide a wide range of discretionary but highly valued services such as museums, theatres, leisure centres, parks and open spaces, which contribute significantly to the wellbeing of our communities.
“Decisions about how these services are delivered matter to local people. I believe it is important that decisions affecting local services are taken as close as possible to the communities they serve, by people with strong local knowledge and an understanding of their areas.
“North Devon Council, alongside six other district councils, has supported the Reimagining Devon proposal, which is one of a number of options being considered. This proposal would see Devon reorganised into three unitary authorities, including a new authority covering Exeter and North Devon. A modified version of this proposal has also been submitted which would see Plymouth remain a standalone unitary authority with a modest expansion of its boundaries.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in the future of local government and local services in Devon to take part in the consultation and share their views before it closes. Further information about the consultation and the different proposals can be found at www.devonlgr.co.uk.”