Devolution and local government reorganisation (LGR)

Devolving more powers to local areas and simplifying local government in Devon and surrounding areas.

↓

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 opporate in Devon and surrounding areas
How it works now.
How is local Government in the county of Devon currently structured

What happens next?

Developing a proposal for local government reorganisation

How Devon County Council will develop a proposal which puts residents’ needs first and will provide efficient and effective services which are locally accountable.

Ministers want an interim plan to be submitted on or before Friday 21 March 2025, with full proposals to be submitted by Friday 28 November 2025

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
Elections to shadow authorities	April/May 2027
Vesting day for new authorities	April 2028

FAQs

More about how devolution and local government reorganisation will work in the local area.

Might there be an elected Mayor for the area?

The leaders of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Councils have agreed to work together to explore the creation of a Mayor-led strategic authority which would bring additional monies and powers to the county of Devon.
How will the work to develop LGR affect council services?

Although some staff are working to develop proposals which would result in the best outcome for Devon residents, the council is continuing to deliver business as usual across its services for the foreseeable future.
Where can I find out more?
- Sign up to Devon County Council news alerts: News from Devon County Council
- Follow Devon County Council on social media
- Read the English Devolution White Paper – GOV.UK
- Read the Statutory letter inviting proposals for LGR in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay.
- Visit the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority website