The UK is about to undergo one of the most significant overhauls of local governance in decades. With 18 local authorities requesting to delay their elections to facilitate sweeping reorganisations, the proposed changes promise to reshape the way local services are delivered. But what does this shake-up entail, and how will it impact local communities?
For context on the ‘devolution revolution’ please click here for Chamber UK’s analysis on this new policy.
What Is the Local Government Shake-Up?
At the heart of the proposed reforms is the creation of unitary authorities – single-tier councils that merge smaller district councils with county councils. Representing populations of around 500,000, these authorities aim to simplify governance, reduce costs, and streamline service delivery.
According to Local Government Minister Jim McMahon MP, the government plans to finalise its decisions on election delays by the end of the month. Speaking in the House of Commons, he stated, “We will only postpone elections where there is a clear commitment to reorganisation.”
Proponents argue that unitary authorities will enhance efficiency and improve services, with the potential to save the public purse £2 billion. However, critics fear the creation of “mega councils” could dilute local decision-making. By consolidating smaller councils into larger unitary authorities, decisions that were once made at a hyper-local level might now be decided by a more centralised body. While this can lead to consistency and efficiency, it also risks sidelining the unique needs of smaller communities. For example, rural areas could find themselves overshadowed by urban priorities within the same authority. Critics argue that this restructuring may result in a loss of local representation and the personal touch that smaller councils often provide.
The Role of Elected Mayors
An integral part of the shake-up is the introduction of elected mayors for counties like Kent and Essex. These mayors would assume responsibilities ranging from transport and housing to public health and strategic planning.
The government envisions these mayors working closely with unitary authorities while serving as the public figurehead. Similar models, such as Greater Manchester’s Andy Burnham, are cited as examples of success. Elections for the first wave of county mayors are expected to take place in May 2026, with the new councils operational by 2027 or 2028.
Election Delays and Controversy
The proposed delays to May’s local elections have sparked intense debate. Conservative Shadow Minister David Simmonds questioned the rationale for costly elections for councils set to be abolished, while Liberal Democrat MP Vikki Slade criticised the “top-down diktat” approach from Whitehall.
Others, like Conservative MP Mark Francois, have called for referendums, arguing that constituents should have a direct say in whether these changes proceed. Francois remarked, “If there is such a referendum…I will gladly vote remain,” in a joke about his Brexit campaign past.
Meanwhile, concerns about financial fairness have also surfaced. Kit Malthouse, a Conservative MP, warned against merging debt-ridden councils with those that have managed their finances prudently. “It would be profoundly unfair if many years of careful stewardship were wiped out by amalgamation,” he said.
The Devolution Revolution
Beyond restructuring local governance, the reforms are part of a broader push for devolution. The government hopes to transfer greater powers to local leaders, enabling faster decision-making on key services like transport. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner dubbed the initiative a “devolution revolution.”
While the government promises increased autonomy for local areas, critics worry about the centralised nature of the reforms. Labour MPs, however, have welcomed the changes, with Alice Macdonald stating they are “long overdue and will bring many benefits.”
What Happens Next?
The government’s timeline is ambitious. With elections potentially postponed and new shadow authorities established, significant organisational changes are expected within the next two years. However, as MP Will Forster noted, transitioning from 14 councils to three unitary authorities in a county like Kent will be complex. Issues like job losses, redistribution of services, and the risk of impersonal governance creates some apprehension.
The final decision on which councils will join the priority programme for reorganisation will be announced by the end of the month. As McMahon highlighted, “The government understands the financial challenges and is working to find solutions, but we are not yet at the point of announcing specifics.”
Final Thought: A Political Gamble
The local government shake-up represents a bold attempt to modernise governance and devolve power. However, its success depends on careful implementation, financial fairness, and public support.
While the potential for improved efficiency and cost savings is clear, the reforms risk alienating communities if perceived as a top-down imposition. With questions about democratic representation, financial equity, and the scale of reorganisation, the government’s approach will need to balance ambition with pragmatism.
