Councillor Phil Bialyk, leader of Exeter City Council, has welcomed the announcement.
“Local government reorganisation is a unique opportunity to build a brighter future with stronger services and local accountability,” he said.
“It simplifies things for residents and communities by just having one tier of local government running services.
“Exeter and Plymouth’s joint submission recognised the importance of Devon’s growth areas while ensuring all four new councils have the scale to deliver high-quality services. I am delighted the Government has recognised this.”
He said there was no immediate change, but people would receive more information in the coming weeks.