THE Boundary Committee met with the leaders and chief executives of Devon's district councils and the county council on Monday, as it begins its review of local government. As it set out its timetable for a possible structural review of local authorities in Devon, the message from the committee was that only stand-alone unitary councils would be considered as options for change. Unitary councils are a single authority delivering major council services which are currently provided by both district and county councils. The Boundary Committee made it clear that they are looking for unitary council options that will enjoy a broad cross-section of support, provide strategic leadership, achieve neighbourhood empowerment, deliver value for money and meet an affordability test. Cllr James McInnes, West Devon borough leader, said: 'The Boundary Committee made it very clear to us today how the review will be carried out and we will do our best to keep residents fully updated throughout the process. 'We are determined to work with the Boundary Committee to ensure the continuation of high quality services and value for money for those services to all West Devon residents.' West Devon leaders this week said that throughout the review process, they were determined to fight for the continuation of high quality services and strong representation for the people and communities of the borough. The Boundary Committee was appointed to look at options to Devon's existing structure of authorities when Exeter's unitary proposal was put on hold in December 2007. The Committee will make its recommendations to the Government at the end of the year before a final decision is made by the Secretary of State in 2009. The Boundary Committee is meeting West Devon councillors next Monday (March 10).