Exeter pledges to ‘stay focused’ despite devolution distractions

'Once in a generation opportunity for the city'

People in Exeter are being invited to have their say on an ambitious strategy aimed at cementing the city’s position as Devon’s ‘economic powerhouse’.

It comes as the county is on the verge of a massive reorganisation which could change the shape of all 11 main councils.

But Exeter has pledged not to be distracted, and to stay focused on delivering on its promises.

Now residents’ views are being sought on the city council’s corporate plan, which sets out four priorities for the next few years, namely the local economy, homes, people and a sustainable environment.

In a joint statement council leader Phil Bialyk (Lab, Exwick) and chief executive Bindu Arjoon said: “While we believe devolution and local government reorganisation offers an exciting, once in a generation opportunity for the city, we also need to keep focused on the day job of delivering the best public services for residents, business and visitors.”

The city council wants to become a unitary authority under forthcoming reorganisation, severing ties with Devon County Council. But the city’s population of 130,000 people is well below the government half-million guideline for its proposed new unitaries. There is some wriggle-room.

Many people are predicting an outcome which has Exeter combined with East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon and Torridge in one large authority. Torbay, Teignbridge, South Hams and West Devon would combine for another, while Plymouth would stand alone.

The city council’s statement goes on: “Despite the continued tough economic climate that all councils must operate in, there’s a huge opportunity for Exeter to expand and grow sustainably in the years ahead. Our new local plan – the Exeter Plan – sets out how we plan to do this.

“Exeter continues to be a fantastic place to live with a great quality of life and a thriving city centre. We are a fast-growing destination city, a city of culture and heritage, with a high-performing economy that makes us the economic powerhouse of Devon.”

The corporate plan is available on the city council’s website as part of a public consultation exercise which lasts for six weeks.