DEVON County Council has begun a serious of 28 events across the county to talk to the public about local government reorganisation - and Crediton is on the list of towns to be visited.

While no date has yet been announced for the Crediton event, the consultation began on Friday, July 18 at Ilfracombe.

Devon County Council's new leader sharply criticised plans to restructure local government as he launched a campaign to ensure the public have a chance to shape services in the county.

Leader, Julian Brazil, says he doesn’t agree with the way that the government is going about reorganising local government structures, but that he does believe it’s an opportunity to look properly at how councils could deliver better public services.

He says it’s his aim for the council to do the best it can to make sure the lives of Devon residents are improved through local government reorganisation.

The government said last year that it wants to abolish two-tier authorities – County Councils and District Councils – and to replace them with single unitary authorities, some of them Mayoral led.

It now wants local authorities affected to engage with local residents, to seek views on new local government structures for their areas.

Councils need to submit proposals for new structures by November 28, after which the government will lead formal consultation of firm proposals.

At its roadshows, Devon County Council is asking residents to prioritise public services that are most important to them.

The public is being asked what they value most in their local area, and what they would like to see more of in their communities.

As well as the roadshow events, the council has an online survey running until mid-October, and will be meeting with key stakeholder groups.

Council Leader, Councillor Julian Brazil, said: “Government has decided to reorganise local government. The number of councils in Devon is due to be reduced, with district councils and Devon County Council ceasing to exist and unitary authorities, which combine services, formed. I can’t say I’m particularly impressed with the process, but it does give us an opportunity to look at how services are delivered. It is our aim to try and achieve the best we can.

“As we plan for the future, we want to hear from you. Your feedback will help shape local policies, services, and investments to reflect the needs and priorities of our community.”

To take part in the survey please visit DCC’s engagement website. This website also includes a list of engagement events.