Plymouth will not delay local elections

Exeter pressed for a decision

Pressure is mounting on Exeter City Council to determine its local election decision after Plymouth City Council confirmed it would proceed with May's vote as planned. 

This follows the government's January 15th deadline, which offered local authorities the chance to vote for a delay because to the complexities surrounding local government reorganisation. 

The transition has been described as the most significant shake-up of local council structures in half a century, with potential for "super authorities" to be created. 

The acting leader for Plymouth said the authority was well advanced in it's preprations and the poll will go ahead.

Devon County Council's leader, Julian Brazil, praised Plymouth's stance, suggesting it should be a "wake-up call" for Exeter. 

Mr. Brazil argued that "councillors are elected to office for a specific term and should not seek to extend that without a mandate," adding that "it would be a disgrace if Exeter residents were deprived of the chance to choose who represents them." 

The leader of the council in Exeter remains undecided and is planning to discuss the issue with the chief executive before making a final decision.

A special meeting of Devon County Council is scheduled for January 9th to debate and respond to the letter.