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About reorganisation

What the government is looking for

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.

Read the English Devolution White PaperRead the Government's proposal guidance

The Government's criteria

A single tier of local government

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? 

Improves local services

Will the proposed structure make life easier and better for local people?

Saves money and delivers value

Will the proposed structure cut costs but still deliver good – or even better – services?

Makes local government simpler

Is the proposed structure clear and less confusing for residents?

Supports local identity

Does the proposed structure make sense for local communities and what makes them special?

Strong community engagement and empowerment

How will the proposed structure strengthen community involvement and ensure local voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes?

Population size

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.

Read on or jump to a section

Click next section to read on or choose a section to skip to
Next sectionHow does local government work in WorcestershireWhy is reorganisation happeningGovernment criteriaThe options for WorcestershireOne unitary council vs two unitary councilsWhat happens next?Have your say

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