A special place
Devon is a special place. Its distinctive locations, thriving economy, vibrant communities and unique environment form a county with a strong sense of identity and pride.
The people of Devon value community, independence and practical self-reliance, qualities that continue to shape how local services are delivered and how local democracy works.
The facts
What you need to know about devolution and local government reorganisation
Answers to key questions
What is devolution?
Government’s plans for devolution in Devon, transfering more power and spending from Whitehall to local communities.
What is LGR?
How LGR will change the way that local government will operate in Devon and surrounding areas.
How it works now
How is local government in the county of Devon currently structured.
What’s happened so far?
Devon Developing a proposal for local government reorganisation
Devon County Council submitted a full business case to government on 28 November 2025. It outlined a proposal which will be simple to implement, reduce risk to our most vulnerable residents and better connected to communities.
Before this we published our blueprint for local government reorganisation on 7 November 2025 and submitted an interim plan in March 2025.
Find out more about our leading proposal and The County Councils Network report supporting protection of vital care services.
Devolution and local government reorganisation timeline
| Action | Date |
|---|---|
| Devon and Torbay Combined Authority (CCA) comes into being | Wednesday 5 March 2025 |
| LGR interim plan submission deadline | Friday 21 March 2025 |
| Devon County Council Elections | Thursday 1 May 2025 |
| LGR full plan submission deadline | Friday 28 November 2025 |
| Government’s public consultation | Thursday 5 February to Wednesday 25 March |
| Elections to shadow authorities | April/May 2027 |
| Vesting day for new authorities | April 2028 |