Leicestershire councils could look like this in the future

The Government will now consider proposals.

The Government has instructed authorities to reduce the 10 councils in the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland area, and ideas have now been submitted.

Eight Leicestershire and Rutland councils have worked together to submit their North, City, South plan.

The model proposes three unitary councils:

• North Leicestershire and Rutland
• South Leicestershire 
• Leicester City

Cllr Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council and speaking on behalf of the Leaders of the North, City, South councils, said: “The North, City, South proposal represents a united vision from eight councils, cutting across political boundaries to put communities first.

“North, City, South is about creating strong, sustainable councils that can deliver better services, unlock investment, and accelerate growth.

“We’ve listened to residents, businesses, and partners, and their feedback has shaped this plan.

“It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to move from reacting to problems to preventing them helping people earlier and improving lives.

“Local government isn’t broken, but Government has made it clear that change is needed.

"This plan offers a clear, credible direction for Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland for decades to come.”

Leicestershire County Council has sent off its blueprint, which would put Leicestershire and Rutland under a single council.

Dan Harrison, Council leader: "This is the right choice for our communities, our finances and our future. It’s a historic moment for local government in our area and a chance to build a council that’s leaner, more efficient and better equipped to meet future challenges. 

Our plan features local area and planning committees, along the lines of the North Yorkshire Council model, liked by Government and recognised as a success. 

We've worked with Scrutiny leads, local businesses and stakeholders to shape our final proposals, backed by a strong, cross-party majority."

Leicester City Council’s preferred proposal would: establish two unitary councils with balanced populations.

City Mayor, Sir Peter Soulsby, said: "Our proposal isn’t just about the city, it’s about establishing a balanced model of governance that makes sense across LLR for the next half century or more. It’s about councils delivering appropriate and cost-effective services to people who face common issues. It’s about unlocking devolution from central government and boosting the prosperity of the entire region."

The Government will now consider proposals and consult on its preferred options next year.