Why is local government reorganisation taking place?
In December 2024, the Government published the Devolution White Paper, which requires all local authorities to develop proposals to establish a Strategic Authority and for local authorities in areas where there are currently two tiers of local government, to develop proposals for reorganisation.
The Minister for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon MP, wrote to the leaders of two-tier councils in Hertfordshire at the beginning of February. The Minister outlined how the Government is aware of the financial crises that many councils are facing, and as such, they want to build resilient and sustainable local government to increase value for money for council taxpayers.
Therefore, the Government has invited the eleven leaders of the councils across Hertfordshire to work together to develop a proposal for the reorganisation of local government, which best fits the area and its delivery of services. Our final proposal will be submitted to the Government by November this year.
What is the Government looking for?
The Government is looking for a proposal for the reorganisation of local government that does not lead to fragmented services that compete against one another, requires lengthy implementation periods, or does not sufficiently address local interests and identities.
The Government has said it wants to design and implement the best local government structures for efficient and high-quality public service delivery. The Government is therefore expecting local leaders to work collaboratively by sharing information to develop proposals, which is currently being facilitated for the Hertfordshire councils by Impower Consulting and Connect Public Affairs.
What are the Government's aims for devolution?
The Government has said that it wants to see all of England benefit from devolution, which will include full devolution across the country, and wants to work towards all areas having a Mayor and thereby help to rebalance power across England.
The Government has said that the rebalance and the election of more Mayors across the country will help in delivering its key missions for the country.
What is a Strategic Authority, and how does it relate to this process?
A Strategic Authority could provide additional Government powers and funding, helping Hertfordshire to support local economic growth, infrastructure, and investment. The Districts and Boroughs are open to exploring this option as part of a broader conversation about governance.
How will this impact public services?
In the White Paper, the Government has said that devolution is key to achieving growth as well as a more joined-up delivery of public services. For example, over the long term, the Government has stated an ambition to align public service boundaries, including job centres, police, probation, fire, health services and Strategic and Local Authorities.
Has this happened elsewhere in the country?
Yes. Other counties like Northamptonshire, Cumbria, and Somerset have already undergone reorganisation. These examples are being looked at to understand what worked well and what lessons should be learned. We are also learning from other counties that are working on a faster timeline for local government reorganisation, such as Surrey and Essex.
Will Hertfordshire establish its own Strategic Authority, or work with neighbouring areas to create a joint authority that can better coordinate strategy and investment across the region?
Local leaders are currently exploring options for a Strategic Authority for Hertfordshire. The councils are having discussions with neighbouring areas about collaboration to ensure alignment on cross-border issues such as transport, infrastructure, and economic development.
How much will local government reorganisation cost?
There are likely to be both upfront costs (such as staff restructuring, IT, or rebranding) and longer-term savings (from removing duplication and achieving efficiencies).
Is there a chance for Hertfordshire to receive funding to support proposal development?
Yes. The Government has made £378,077 available to support areas in developing proposals. This funding can be used to cover technical work, evidence gathering, and other support needed to shape local government reorganisation plans.
What happens if councils cannot agree on a proposal?
The Government has encouraged collaboration but can consider submissions from groups of councils if consensus cannot be reached. The Government will consider any suitable proposals submitted by the relevant local authorities.
Will there be any impact on future elections?
The Government is responsible for decisions on when elections take place. Elections for new unitary councils would be held once proposals are agreed.
Will residents still have a say if proposals are submitted to the Government?
Yes. Local government reorganisation will proceed in all two-tier areas, including Hertfordshire, in line with the Government’s Devolution White Paper. Any proposal submitted to the Government must include evidence of public engagement and demonstrate how local feedback has shaped the final plans.
What steps are Hertfordshire’s councils taking together to develop a proposal?
Councils across Hertfordshire are working closely together to consider future arrangements. They have jointly commissioned support for the technical work that is needed to assess options and develop proposals. Our focus is on options that will both meet the criteria set by the Government and best meet the needs of local communities.
What is the timeline for this process?
The Government asked councils to submit interim proposals by 21 March to include initial thinking around proposals. Hertfordshire’s proposals were submitted on 20 March. The councils are now working towards the 28 November deadline for final submission of the proposed local government reorganisation in Hertfordshire. Over the coming months, councils will be engaging with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to inform the response.
What steps are being taken to engage local people and consider the effect of the reorganisation on residents and services?
This is a once in a generation change that will affect local people and services for decades to come. There must be proper consideration of the options, as much consensus as possible, and meaningful engagement with residents, key local organisations, including business, and public sector partners.
Further, there will be in-person events as well as virtual briefings to ensure all residents can share their views.
The Council will be engaging directly with local business networks, voluntary groups, as well as education and health institutions and wider local stakeholders.
What if an area cannot achieve consensus by November - will the Government accept multiple submissions?
A council can respond to the invitation by submitting either its own proposal or a joint proposal with other invited councils. However, it cannot be part of more than one final proposal; only a single submission is allowed per council.