There is concern at East Devon District Council (EDDC) over a report making its way to the county council about the services it is prioritising.

The issue was raised by Independent leader Paul Arnott at an EDDC council meeting on Wednesday, April 19.

Devon County Council (DCC)’s children’s services are rated ‘inadequate’ and the government had already put it on notice because of its underperformance.

If the county doesn’t significantly improve, children’s services could be taken away to be run by another organisation.

Cllr Arnott voiced his concern.

“Tonight isn’t the night for politics at all,” he said.  

“I am very worried about the report coming to Devon County next week, that’s all I’ll say.

“I think we need to be aware of that; that will have serious effects on us and our people.”

It was the last full council meeting ahead of the May elections, and Cllr Arnott thanked councillors from all parties for their efforts over the last four years.

He say he will back whoever is elected to succeed him as leader in tackling the financial pressures people are under.

“I feel confident that whoever is elected after May – whoever is elected to be forming part of the leadership group – will rise to that occasion of the public service that’s going to need to be done,” he added.