Help shape a stronger future for ÖйúPÕ¾
The government wants areas like ÖйúPÕ¾ to become Strategic Authorities — led by an elected Mayor.
To do this, ÖйúPÕ¾ must first reorganise into unitary councils, which combine county and district & borough services into a single level of government.
ÖйúPÕ¾ currently has 12 councils. We are proposing to reorganise into two new councils – East ÖйúPÕ¾ and West ÖйúPÕ¾.
Central government is holding a consultation on devolution and local government reorganisation in ÖйúPÕ¾.

Why two councils is best
There’s a number of reasons why we think this arrangement is best for ÖйúPÕ¾ 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
Other plans for ÖйúPÕ¾
Government is also considering a different proposal from some other district and borough councils, to reorganise ÖйúPÕ¾ into three unitary councils.
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 ÖйúPÕ¾. They will use the results from the consultation to help them make a final decision on which option is best for ÖйúPÕ¾.
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