Dozens of Councils to be abolished under biggest reforms in 50 years

Speculation is mounting over the proposed widespread reorganisation of local government.

 

The Times reported on Sunday that ten areas will undergo significant reform, including Kent, Sussex, Essex and Hertfordshire. In the biggest overhaul of local government in more than 50 years, two tier systems will be replaced with larger unitary authorities.  It is anticipated that the Times newspaper is “rolling the pitch” ahead of the Devolution White Paper expected early December (or according to one reliable source as early as Thursday!).

 

Discussions on devolution have been slowly gaining pace since Labour came into power in July, when 21 authorities were asked for “expressions of interest” for devolution deals in areas where none currently exist. The Times reports that those areas identified to undergo change follows “extensive consultation” and includes authorities which are keen to progress change.

 

The Government’s objective is to create simpler structures and use efficiency savings “to meet the needs of local people”.   Combining two tier governments into unitary authorities is hoped to facilitate the delivery of essential services, infrastructure and housing with key decisions taken by one body.

 

How this will work, and timings for delivery, are not yet clear, with further information anticipated to come forward in the White Paper.

 

This will have significant implications for Planning and Local Politics. DHA will monitor the Devolution Paper and provide updates in due course.   In the meantime, if you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact DHA Planning's Hannah Young.