There’s still time for everyone to have their say on proposals for reorganisation of local government in Devon.
But they will need to act fast – the period of public engagement ends on 26 September.
In August Exeter city councillors backed proposals for the geography of a potential new unitary authority, which includes the city of Exeter and surrounding areas.
The proposal involves creating:
An urban unitary council for Exeter and the surrounding areas
An urban unitary council for Plymouth and adjacent parishes
A rural and coastal unitary council for the remainder of Devon
The restructure is intended to create financially viable, efficient authorities aligned to geography, population, and economic potential, recognising the distinct needs and identities of urban and rural areas.
It follows a recent decision by the government to abolish two-tier authorities – areas where some services are run by district councils and others by county councils, as is currently the case in Exeter.
People are being encouraged to complete an online questionnaire on the council’s website to help the authority determine what is most important to residents.
Two prominent Exmouth shops have been permanently closed for selling counterfeit cigarettes and illegal vapes. Classic Mini Market on Rolle Street and Phone Zone in The Parade were shut following closure orders over multiple offences.
Fifteen Year 9 and 10 students took part in a session introducing digital enterprise and innovation. The workshop explored how digital skills can develop ideas, solve problems, and create opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
Do you recognise this man? Police investigating a burglary at a Sidmouth home are appealing for help to identify him. An offender forced rear doors on Woolbrook Road on 14 February, searched inside, and moved jewellery, but nothing is believed stolen.
With just weeks until the City Council elections, Exeter residents are urged to ensure they’re ready to vote. Polling takes place on Thursday 7 May across all 13 wards. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm.
Police were called at around 10pm on Tuesday 10 March to reports of a collision in a layby on the A30 Westbound at Fenny Bridges and they are continuing to appeal for witnesses following the incident.
The Summary of Candidates Nominated for the elections on Thursday 7 May can now be viewed on the City Council website. The publication of the notice follows the close of nominations on Friday 10 April and confirms the candidates standing in each ward across the city.
East Devon District Council is inviting residents, visitors and stakeholders to take part in a public consultation on its draft Local Nature Recovery Plan, aiming to understand how people value nature and what matters most to communities.
Lady Seaward’s Primary School in Clyst St George plans to replace its main and secondary entrance gates to boost security, including increasing height of main gate, and another on site.
Get your thinking caps on and rally your smartest friends – our much-loved Beehive Quiz Night is back
Expect a fun evening of brain-teasing questions, friendl...