Council Leader: we stand together against those seeking to divide us
 We stand together against those seeking to divide us
The Leader of Exeter City Council has issued a statement supporting Exeter’s diverse communities and opposing those seeking to create division in the city.
The statement comes ahead of a march and counter demonstration planned to take place in the city centre on Saturday 22 November.
A group known as British Unity Walk is planning to march through the city on Saturday morning. The group held a similar march in Exeter at the end of October.
A counter-protest by Exeter is for Everyone is also due to take place on Saturday.
Council Leader Cllr Phil Bialyk said: “While people have the right to protest and express their views, we will not tolerate those who seek to cause division, fear and distress among any members of our community.
“A similar march took place only a few weeks ago - which was heavily outnumbered by those opposing it - and I question the need to hold another march so soon afterwards.
“Exeter is proud to be home to many diverse communities and people from different backgrounds, identities and countries of origin.
“Everyone in our city has the right to feel safe, to feel supported and to feel that they belong – these are values we cherish, values that should unite us all.
“As I have said many times before, Exeter is proud to be a City of Sanctuary, a city where everyone should feel welcome – our diversity is one of our great strengths.
“I hope the day again passes without incident, and we can continue with the job of supporting all members of our community and ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive in our great city.”
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Budget consultation: your views needed on prioritising council services
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Residents are being urged to take part in the council’s annual budget consultation.
The city council is asking residents to highlight which services are most important to them and what they think the council should prioritise in the future.
Every year the council must agree a budget which balances the money it spends on services with the money it receives from Council Tax, Business Rates, government grants and income from chargeable services.
Due to an expected increase in the grants received from central Government for 2026/2027 in the new national Fair Funding Formula, the council is expected to be able to put forward a balanced budget for next year without having to consider reducing services.
So this year the council wants to understand how people rate the council’s key strategic priorities set up in its Corporate Plan - local economy, people, homes, sustainable environment, and a well-run council.
The feedback provided helps councillors make decisions on short-term and longer-term spending plans.
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