THE leader of Torridge District Council has said that he is frustrated at the ongoing confusion on the future makeup of Devon’s council system.

It comes as the government confirms it will proceed with its proposals to force district councils to merge together into bigger unitary authorities as part of its devolution proposals, but that the controversial proposals for Devon will not proceed.

Previously announced proposals that would see a structure involving an enlarged councils for Exeter, Torbay and Plymouth with the rest of Devon lumped into a giant ‘Devon Coast and Country’ council have been ditched.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) confirmed that the previous decision of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay has been withdrawn.

The government is remaining committed to reorganisation and that reorganisation in Devon will still be going ahead, with all existing options and proposals remaining under consideration. An outcome should be announced by early next year.

The announcement follows the decision to pause and review proposals of LGR in September 2026.

Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council said: "Despite the update, it is frustrating that there is still uncertainty over the future structure of local government in Devon. It leaves our residents, communities, staff and councillors still waiting for clarity for the future.

Torridge District Council remains committed to working constructively with partners across Devon to ensure that any future changes to local government can deliver the best outcomes for local people, communities and businesses."

A spokesperson for Torridge District Council added: “There has been confirmation that district council elections will continue as planned in May 2027 using existing boundaries. The Government's revised timetable suggests that Shadow Council Elections will happen in May 2028, with new Councils being established in 2029.

“Residents should continue to access Torridge District Council services as usual, and the Council will provide further updates as more information is confirmed.”