The Government has opened a statutory consultation on plans to overhaul local government in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, inviting residents and organisations to have their say on proposals that could reshape the region for decades.
Under the plans, the existing two-tier system of councils – where responsibilities are split between county and district councils – could be replaced by larger, single-tier “unitary” authorities with streamlined boundaries. The aim is to create councils that are more efficient, with populations of 500,000 or more, while balancing service costs and potential savings across areas.
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
Leicester City Council has submitted a proposal to expand the city’s boundaries to include the built-up area, suburbs, and room for future growth. A second unitary authority would cover the surrounding rural areas of Leicestershire and Rutland, including market towns. According to the council, this would result in balanced populations between the two new councils and ensure fairer distribution of future savings and service costs.
City Mayor Peter Soulsby welcomed the consultation, calling it “a once-in-a-generation opportunity” to create a “more rational and easily understood geography” that reflects Leicester’s growth.
“This is a huge challenge, but one that presents immense opportunities,” Mayor Soulsby said. “The consultation is a chance for everyone to have their voice heard and share their views on proposals that will impact services and communities for the next half century or more.”
Residents and organisations can take part in the consultation and complete an online survey via the Government’s website. The consultation closes on 26 March.
For more information, visit: Proposals for local government reorganisation in Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland – GOV.UK.
