THE leader of one of the councils set to disappear as result of the nationwide local government shake-up has said he is disappointed by the recent announcement that a final decision will be delayed.

Teignbridge District Council had been set to disappear as early as 2028 under the controversial local government reorganisation (LDR) strategy, but the government put the plans on hold last month and has now ‘withdrawn’ them.

Council leaders believe the government is still sticking to its plans, but will discuss ‘minor tweaks’ with the authorities involved.

If the plan does survive the delays, Teignbridge will be abolished along with Devon County Council and all the other district councils in Devon. In their place will be four large unitary councils – an expanded Exeter, Plymouth and Torbay and another giant Coast and Countryside council covering the remainder of Devon.

Critics say the huge fourth council risks becoming an unmanageable ‘rump’ without a clear centre.

Ministers say all options remain on the table, but they want more time to review the proposals. The delays follow moves by a number of councils including Devon to force a judicial review of the strategy.

Teignbridge Council leader Richard Keeling (Lib Dem, Chudleigh) said the announcement meant that uncertainty about the future of local government in Devon will continue. Teignbridge, he said, had invested significant time and effort preparing for the proposed new strategic authorities and had hoped today’s announcement would provide more certainty about the future.

“Our biggest concern is the uncertainty this creates for residents, staff and councils,” he added. “Councillors and officers at Teignbridge have spent many months preparing for change while continuing to serve our communities. A decision today would have provided a clearer direction for the future.

“We recognise that the government wants more time to consider the proposals and we look forward to hearing more early in the new year.

“In the meantime, our priority remains the same – delivering excellent services for the residents, communities and businesses of Teignbridge.”