Merging councils 'will improve inequalities'

Exeter City Council has called for new unitary councils to form

Merging councils across Devon will "improve inequalities and provide better value for money", a council has said.

In a report produced by Exeter City Council (ECC), leaders have recommended creating a new unitary authority for the city and the surrounding area.

This would offer all local government services in one area, as opposed to through county and district councils.

The restructure would create an urban unitary council for Exeter and the surrounding areas, an urban unitary council for an expanded Plymouth and a rural and coastal unitary council for the remainder of Devon.

Council leader Phil Bialyk said the proposals would ensure resilience and strengthen the region against economic shocks.

He said: "Reorganisation presents a once in a generation opportunity to reshape public services to improve outcomes for residents, address inequalities and deliver value for money.

"Exeter is the regional capital and acts as the engine for growth of our dynamic and diverse urban and rural area and our important market towns."

Bindu Arjoon, ECC's chief executive, said public engagement would be key to the final outcome.

He said: "A new unitary council for Exeter and the surrounding area will allow us to create services that are designed around the specific needs of local communities.

"The proposal supports growth, community identity, resilience, and service delivery in cities, coastal towns and dispersed rural areas."

The report is set to be discussed by councillors mid-August. If agreed a six-week public consultation will take place from 15 August.