Resident views
On July 18, 2025, the council launched a resident survey which will run until 14 October. The purpose of the survey is to gather views on local authority services and areas for improvement, to help shape our strategic plan, and proposal for local government reorganisation (LGR).
The survey has been publicised through local media and at a series of face-to-face public engagement events in urban, rural and coastal locations across the county. Special effort was made to reach ‘hard to hear’ communities, with social media advertising tailored towards younger and more ethnically diverse communities who are traditionally under-represented in local authority consultations.
Data collected on respondents enables analysis by factors including postcode, age, gender, ethnicity, experience of care and experience of military service. The interim findings, after 2,626 responses, have been used to support the development of this plan, and details can be found in Appendix One. A final report will be published on our website alongside this plan.
Results indicate a clear and strong priority for Devon’s environment, with more than 75% of residents rating this as the most important service for them and 94% of respondents saying that the county’s environment was important or very important to them. More affordable homes for local people was also a high priority, alongside better maintained roads and improving public health.
Residents expressed frustrations over a perceived lack of communication and consultation from all local authorities, and there was strong support for greater involvement in decision making, with 67% of respondents stating they wanted greater participation.
Most participants said they felt a very strong or strong association with Devon. This was further expressed by comments on the importance of local distinctiveness, ranging from recognising the significance of farming and our landscapes, our culture and heritage to supporting independent shops, products and a desire to see local businesses flourish.
The value of community organisations, local charities and voluntary organisation was also referenced as a significant part of a sense of belonging and personal connection to Devon as a place.
Residents valued their local areas and rated green spaces and community spirit as areas they most appreciated. There was an emerging theme of having more green spaces and activities for young people as areas for improvement, along with a desire for better public transport. Respondents also wanted improvements to GP and health services and an increased visible police presence.
Staff engagement
Staff are central to the success of this plan. An all staff briefing took place on 22nd July to engage colleagues, share work in progress and to gather feedback. A series of workshops have also been held to help shape priorities and values, and to consider the linkage with directorate plans and the corporate annual plan.