Local government in Leicestershire is changing

The government wants to reduce the number of councils in areas like ours and make things simpler and more efficient.

This will mean new unitary councils are created – authorities which deliver all services.
They will replace the district and borough councils and the county councils.

Developing proposals

The Government has invited the area to submit plans for future council structures. This is also about unlocking devolution and bringing powers and funding to the region.
The seven district and borough councils in Leicestershire and Rutland County Council are working together to look at how we can make this work best for local communities.

From the work we've carried out so far, a preferred model for local government structures in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland is emerging. That model is for three unitary councils for our shared area:

· One to serve North Leicestershire and Rutland

an area currently served by Charnwood, North West Leicestershire and Melton district and borough councils, and Rutland County Council)

· One for South Leicestershire

an area currently served by Blaby, Harborough, Hinckley & Bosworth and Oadby & Wigston district and borough councils

· One for the city of Leicester

based on its existing boundaries

The benefits of three unitary councils

This approach ensures councils remain connected to people and place, are accessible and accountable, efficient and have simple structures.
These are initial ideas. We need to do much more work, including engaging with our communities.
The deadline is tight. The Government wants an interim plan by 21 March 2025.

We need views to help shape our proposal

We are talking to stakeholders but want to make sure residents, organisations and businesses can also share their views.
We have created a short survey so you can have a say now.
The 'ask' at this stage is really simple – what is most important to you when you think about your local council? If you have any other thoughts or views on the topic, feel free to share them with us.
There will be more to get involved in as much wider public engagement is planned before final proposals need to be submitted in November 2025.