Expansion plan would boost city's population to 300k

PLYMOUTH'S population could grow by around 13%, if the city's plans to absorb 13 neighbouring parishes come to fruition.

- By ALISON STEPHENSON Local Democracy Reporter

Plymouth City Council is putting the idea to the Government this week, as its preferred option for local authority reorganisation. If accepted, it would increase Plymouth's population to around 300,000 by taking Bickleigh, Shaugh Prior, Sparkwell, Brixton, Wembury, Cornwood, Harford, Ugborough, Ivybridge, Ermington, Yealmpton, Holbeton, and Newton and Noss from South Hams District Council.

The Government wants to abolish the district and county two-tier system in favour of larger unitary councils delivering services including education, roads and social care.

Over the coming months the city council says it will liaise with parish councils and others on a "comprehensive engagement process" to work up the idea. A decision will be made by the government later this year.