Local Government Reorganisation
July 2025
The way that local government works is changing. The Government published plans in December 2024 which will mean the end of district and county councils and the formation of fewer unitary councils. Unitary councils combine all the services for all services currently delivered by either the County or the District Council.
In March 2025, the district and borough councils in Warwickshire submitted an interim plan which identified two options which could be considered – these were:
- One unitary for the whole of Warwickshire
- Two unitary councils – one for the North and one for the South of Warwickshire
A considerable amount of research has since been done that is available as a Report in the Cabinet papers for the 7 July. The Report produced comes to a strong conclusion that a two-unitary model, (a North Warwickshire Council and a South Warwickshire Council), is the best option.
This Report will be debated at the Council on the 14 July and then there will be a consultation with residents, parish councils and stakeholders over the summer. The next step, after the consultation, will be an agreement on a final submission to Government by the 28 November.
As we think about this major change it will become important to consider what is most important for residents. Communities should be central to the design of councils fit for the future. Democratic leadership has to be tied to the service provided to residents. Local democracy should be just that – local.
Economic footprints, travel to work areas – and most importantly local identity matter. We have to consider financial sustainability, the delivery of services and, above all, how we improve the quality of life and outcomes for the residents we serve. We have to develop our vision for the Council of the future and adapt to change, but we must continue to protect priority frontline services.
As part of the changes we also have to develop a vision that looks not just at the services that the local councils currently deliver but also what the future could look like. What could we achieve by working with partners and other organisations in a much better way?
As an example, Government is undertaking a reform of the NHS. Prevention is a significant part of the reforms. So, what can a future council do to ensure services that address local circumstances? Many council-led initiatives not only improve individual health outcomes but also strengthen community resilience and economic wellbeing.
A recent report from the District Councils Network describes local connections as a prevention superpower because of the work that they do to support communities. It is important to provide support that is locally tailored which effectively brings together all the services local councils offer. We must, for example, ensure that planning and leisure services work well with education and social services for the benefit of everyone.
The transition to a new council will take time and will require good management and leadership over the next two to three years. Reorganisation can create risks but also gives us a chance to re-think and reset. A clear commitment to local residents and a clear vision will assist.
It is important that residents respond to the consultation to express their preferences. If you prefer not to do this on-line, please speak to your local councillor.
