The Future of Local Government
The English Devolution White Paper sets out a range of proposals relating to devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
The current system of local government is complex. There are a range of different structures, including Strategic Authorities (mostly mayoral combined authorities), county councils, city councils, borough councils, district councils, and town and parish councils.
The recent Devolution White Paper seeks to achieve two things: devolving more powers to local areas (devolution) and simplifying the local government structure (Local Government Reorganisation).
Timeline
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
5 February 2025 | Statutory invitation received from government to submit unitary proposals |
21 March 2025 | Submit interim Local Government Reorganisation proposal |
1 May 2025 | Hertfordshire County Council Elections |
May 2025 | Interim feedback received from government |
12 June 2025 | Council Leaders rule out a single unitary authority |
July 2025 | Councils launch stakeholder consultation |
September 2025 | Councils launch public engagement |
28 November 2025 | Submit full Local Government Reorganisation proposal |
February 2026 | Government launches consultation on unitary proposals |
May 2027 | Elections (Shadow authorities)* |
April 2028 | Vesting day for new unitary councils |
*Shadow authorities are the new unitary councils prior to them formally taking on all responsibilities.
You may also wish to visit Hertfordshire's dedicated website, where you can find more information on the options being considered, the final proposals submitted to government and a frequently asked questions section.
Useful links
English Devolution White Paper:
The English Devolution White Paper sets out the Government’s agenda to increase and expand devolution across all parts of England.
Local Government Association (LGA) Devolution Hub:
Visit the LGA Devolution Hub to find further information and resources. This includes a list of regularly updated devolution and local government reorganisation FAQs. You can find updates on the current devolution framework and devolution deals agreed between Government and local areas.
Letter from Jim McMahon OBE. Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution:
The letter to all two-tier councils and neighbouring unitary authorities, dated 16 December 2024 sets out the Government’s process and milestones.