The Government published a document towards the end of 2024 setting out its vision for how it wanted councils to reorganise local government across England. This is known as the English Devolution white paper.
Briefly, the white paper asks councils to put forward plans for their areas to reorganise into unitary councils. In a letter from the minister on 5 February 2025 all councils were given guidance to support them to produce proposals for reorganisation.
These are technical documents, but if you click or tap the buttons below you can read them in full if you want to know more.
If you scroll down we have provided a simple summary of the key points the Government want us to take into account. You may find this helpful to consider when deciding on how to respond to our Council changes survey.
Will the proposed structure relate to a sensible economic area that enables a reduced number of councils (that are larger than the current district/borough/city councils) to work better together on large scale projects, help increase housing supply and meet local needs?
Will the proposed structure make life easier and better for local people?
Will the proposed structure cut costs but still deliver good – or even better – services?
Is the proposed structure clear and less confusing for residents?
Does the proposed structure make sense for local communities and what makes them special?
How will the proposed structure strengthen community involvement and ensure local voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes?
Does the plan create strong councils but not so big they lose their local feel?
The white paper suggests councils should aim to cover a population of at least 500,000 people but ministers have since confirmed this is a guide and not a target. Some councils may be smaller and some larger than this figure.
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