How likely is a unitary Exeter to achieve the Governments objectives?
Strong, effective and accountable strategic leadership For a key regional city like Exeter, it is imperative that responsibility is vested in one visible, accessible political leader who is both equipped to take strategic decisions and, in exercising a wider community leadership role, capable of extending his or her influence over a broader range of public services and enhancing the opportunities for political engagement. A unitary Exeter will deliver jobs, economic growth and prosperity at a time when the country needs them most. We have provided substantial evidence to demonstrate the advantages that a unitary Exeter offers in terms of strong and effective economic leadership. The status of Exeter has been articulated by the South West Regional Assembly as a “major Regional Centre for employment, retail services and culture”. The Regional Economic Strategy shows that the economic significance of Exeter considerably exceeds Torbay and currently lies third in the region, while by 2026
