Help shape a stronger future for ßÙßÇÂþ»
The government wants areas like ßÙßÇÂþ» to become Strategic Authorities — led by an elected Mayor.
To do this, ßÙßÇÂþ» must first reorganise into unitary councils, which combine county and district & borough services into a single level of government.
ßÙßÇÂþ» currently has 12 councils. We are proposing to reorganise into two new councils – East ßÙßÇÂþ» and West ßÙßÇÂþ».
Central government is holding a consultation on devolution and local government reorganisation in ßÙßÇÂþ».
Why two councils is best
There’s a number of reasons why we think this arrangement is best for ßÙßÇÂþ» residents and businesses
- It saves money and offers better value for tax payers. Stable finances will protect vital services.
- It simplifies services, delivering everything residents need to a high quality, with fewer points of contact and reduced confusion about which council does what.
- It will strengthen our local communities by connecting people through Neighbourhood Area Committees in towns and villages.
A plan supported by
Other plans for ßÙßÇÂþ»
Government is also considering a different proposal from some other district and borough councils, to reorganise ßÙßÇÂþ» into three unitary councils.
Government consultation
Central government is holding a consultation about the proposed plans for devolution and local government reorganisation. This will run until Tuesday 5 August 2025. This will help government to understand what residents, businesses and other stakeholders think about the changes in ßÙßÇÂþ». They will use the results from the consultation to help them make a final decision on which option is best for ßÙßÇÂþ».
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