Councillors have unanimously backed plans for Exeter to set out its intention to become a unitary authority under plans for devolution and local government reorganisation.
At an Extraordinary Council Meeting, members discussed a report which set out the Council’s initial response to the Government’s recently published White Paper and recommended that it states its intention to seek unitary status for Exeter.
A letter of intent will now be submitted to government which indicates opposition to any future proposal for one unitary council for Devon and expresses Exeter’s intention to submit interim plans for unitary status.
Members also backed a recommendation for the Council to work with other neighbouring authorities to bring forward a Mayoral Strategic Authority, which may cover the areas of Devon and Cornwall, with a unitary Exeter as a constituent member.
The report highlighted the Council’s view that a Unitary Exeter is best placed to co-ordinate public service delivery, drive regeneration and economic growth and strengthen community leadership and identity, in service of the city and wider region.
Council Leader Phil Bialyk said: “It was a very good discussion and debate, and I am glad that we have been able to establish cross party support with a unanimous vote to build our case for Exeter to become a unitary authority and play a full part in a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Devon and Cornwall.
“There are lots of discussions that will now take place with our neighbouring authorities and strategic partners as we work on the details of the proposal.
“But I have absolutely no doubt that as the driving force of economic growth and sustainable development in Devon, a unitary Exeter is the best way of delivering for communities both in Exeter and throughout the wider region.”
Chief Executive Bindu Arjoon said: “Now that Council has approved the recommendations set out in the report we will now send a letter of intent to government outlining our position on unitary status for Exeter.
“The Council will work collaboratively, as much as is possible, with other local councils on the development of proposals going forward in the interest of Exeter and Devon as a whole.”
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