STORY
The Government has confirmed local government reorganisation decisions affecting 14 more areas in England, including Kent and Medway, Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire, Staffordshire and Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland. Ministers said the changes would replace fragmented two-tier structures with stronger unitary councils.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said 134 councils would be streamlined into 38 unitary authorities. Ministers argued that the reforms would reduce duplication, improve accountability and create better foundations for devolution and economic growth.
Council leaders have warned that reorganisation will involve major transition risks, particularly for adult social care, children’s services and public health. The Government has published guidance on protecting those services during the move to new council structures.