Help shape a stronger future for Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ
The government wants areas like Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ to become Strategic Authorities — led by an elected Mayor.
To do this, Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ must first reorganise into unitary councils, which combine county and district & borough services into a single level of government.
Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ currently has 12 councils. We are proposing to reorganise into two new councils – East Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ and West Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ.
Central government is holding a consultation on devolution and local government reorganisation in Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ.

Why two councils is best
There’s a number of reasons why we think this arrangement is best for Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ 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
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 Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ. They will use the results from the consultation to help them make a final decision on which option is best for Ñý¾«¶¯Âþ.
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