Ministers must set a clear timetable and ensure councils are not left to pick up the bill after announcing a review of local government reorganisation (LGR) in England, the LGA has said.
Decisions on LGR in Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk have been withdrawn following new legal advice, while plans for 16 other areas are being paused and reviewed.
The Government has confirmed that local elections in May 2027 will go ahead on existing council boundaries and that it “remains committed to effective and sustainable local government and simplifying these structures”.
Reorganisation in Surrey is unaffected, with two new unitary authorities – East and West Surrey – going live in April 2027.
An LGA spokesperson said: “Councils across the country will hold different views on LGR, what it means for their areas and the announcement of this review. However, it will have caused significant uncertainty, after councils have invested scarce public money and countless hours in the LGR programme.
“Particularly at a time when local services remain under real pressure, this is no way to treat local government.
“Councils need certainty to plan how to deliver vital services to residents and meet demand pressures, and, as we said in July, their expert view needs to be embedded in LGR decision-making.
“The LGA stands ready to use our power to convene our member councils to ensure any future reform is shaped locally and based on what works for residents.”
- Consensus could not be reached on the LGA’s response to the LGR review; this position reflects a majority view of its political leadership.