Report highlights importance of Exeter in local government reorganisation

A new report has been launched highlighting the importance of UK cities like Exeter in local government reorganisation.

he Case for Cities report offers recommendations for Government to support councils so they can fully address urgent challenges including economic growth. 

It argues that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and regional devolution can create the conditions for cities like Exeter to flourish. 

LGR offers an opportunity to invest in city-led unitary authorities, backing them with a long-term strategy that unlocks their full potential for innovative, inclusive growth and prosperity. 

The report says smaller cities could be engines of growth and prosperity but are constrained by outdated boundaries and governance structures, while global competitors grow and evolve at pace. 

Exeter is used as a case study in the new report. 

It says: “Exeter is one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities, an economic engine for the South West and a national leader in climate science, health innovation, and advanced research. 

“It is home to the Met Office, Exeter Science Park, and a globally ranked university that contributes over £540 million to the local economy. 

“Exeter’s strength lies not only in its institutions and strong partnerships, but in its ability to connect people, places, and ideas, across towns, rural areas, and coastal communities. 

“With the right powers across the right geography, Exeter will build over 40,000 homes and create inclusive, healthy and sustainable communities.” 

The report adds: “With national recognition for its net-zero leadership, Exeter is positioned to deliver clean, inclusive growth for the South West. 

“Planning for the right growth, in the right places, will mean investment can be shaped to deliver communities for the future. It could unlock housing, regenerate brownfield land, and scale its innovation economy, benefiting communities across the urban area and beyond. 

“Exeter is not simply a city - it is a regional connector, a national climate hub, and a driver of shared prosperity. It has delivered, despite structural constraints. With the right powers, it won’t just keep pace but lead the way. 

“Back Exeter, and it will deliver for its people, its region, and the future of the UK economy.” 

Bindu Arjoon, Exeter City Council’s Chief Executive, said: “A unitary council that includes the City of Exeter and surrounding areas would deliver a new approach to strategic planning, taking forward the recommendations of the Devon Housing Commission in an enhanced partnership with Homes England and the Devon & Torbay Combined County Authority to deliver a pipeline of large-scale housing sites and a Strategic Housing Plan for Devon.” 

Council Leader Phil Bialyk added: “This report sets out why Exeter must be at the heart of a new unitary, together with its surrounding areas. It is vital we retain our sense of place and prioritise economic growth, using the strength of our city as the catalyst for growth in the rest of Devon.”