NALC welcomes progress on local government reorganisation in five areas

We welcome the government's announcement that it is minded to proceed with local government reorganisation proposals in five areas, while calling for greater certainty for the remaining areas still awaiting decisions.

The announcement confirms that the government is minded to proceed with proposals in East Sussex and Brighton and Hove, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire. The proposals will now be subject to a minimum three-week period for further representations before final decisions are made, with parliamentary approval also required.

We have stressed that, as new unitary authorities are established, it is essential they work closely with parish and town councils to ensure local communities retain a strong voice in decisions affecting their neighbourhoods.

Parish and town councils play a vital role in representing local people, delivering services and managing community assets. Their local knowledge and connection with residents must be recognised and valued as new governance arrangements take shape. We want to see meaningful engagement with the sector, with parish and town councils recognised as key partners in shaping the future of local government.

However, we have also highlighted the continuing uncertainty facing the 15 remaining areas where decisions are still under review. While the government has committed to providing outcomes for all areas by early 2027, the withdrawal of previous decisions and the prospect of further changes are creating uncertainty for councils and communities.

We would like to see decisions made as early as possible, enabling local authorities, parish and town councils and their partners to plan effectively and prepare for the transition. Greater clarity will be important in maintaining momentum and ensuring that local communities are not left in limbo.

The government has confirmed that local elections in the affected areas will proceed in May 2027 on existing council boundaries, with shadow council elections scheduled for May 2028 and new authorities expected to take responsibility in April 2029.

We will continue to engage with the government and local government partners to ensure the interests of parish and town councils are represented throughout the reorganisation process.