Shaping ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s Future, the Interim Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution in ÄûÃʵ¼°¹ has now been submitted to government. Leaders of all 12 ÄûÃʵ¼°¹ councils have outlined a shared vision for ÄûÃʵ¼°¹, with options to split ÄûÃʵ¼°¹ into two or three unitary councils following reorganisation. This is an important step in government's timeline, working towards elections in May 2026.
Our Cabinet recommend that ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s 12 councils are replaced with two new unitary councils. Backed by supporting evidence, two councils would create simpler, more effective, sustainable and cheaper local government for ÄûÃʵ¼°¹.
Below you can read the interim proposal, which is split into Part A and Part B.
Shaping ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s Future
Part A
Joint Working
Principles of local government reorganisation in ÄûÃʵ¼°¹, setting out how all 12 councils will work together on LGR and devolution. Highlights opportunities for residents and businesses across ÄûÃʵ¼°¹ and raises topics where further discussion with government is welcomed.
Part B
ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s Proposal for ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s future
Part B sets out proposals for future reorganisation in ÄûÃʵ¼°¹, including advantages and disadvantages of different options, approaches to implementation and engagement and steps needed to finalise proposals.
ÄûÃʵ¼°¹'s preferred option is to replace the 12 councils with two unitary councils.
Districts' & Boroughs' Proposal
Most district and borough councils preferred option is to replace the 12 councils with three unitary councils.