Further significant changes to local government in England are set to impact an additional 14 areas, with ministers confirming plans to streamline two-tier council structures. The announcement, made today, 16 July 2026, includes regions such as Kent and Medway, Hertfordshire, and Nottinghamshire and Nottingham, building on existing reorganisation efforts nationwide. This move is intended to simplify local services, enhance accountability, and eliminate what the government describes as 'wasteful duplication'.
The Local Government Reorganisation programme aims to establish more robust foundations for economic growth by enabling councils to offer more cohesive and effective support to residents. By transitioning from multiple district and county councils to single unitary authorities, the government anticipates a more streamlined approach to public services. This consolidation means a single planning team, one finance department, and a unified set of senior leaders, rather than fragmented structures. The resulting efficiencies are expected to free up funds that can be reinvested directly into essential local services, such as road maintenance and social care.
Overall, the reforms will see 134 existing councils consolidated into 38 unitary authorities across the country. Secretary of State Steve Reed emphasised the benefits, stating that the government is 'shaking up local government so that people get the services they deserve - cleaner streets, better care, and money spent on what matters most to local people'. He further highlighted that these reforms will create 'stronger, more efficient councils that lay the foundations for real devolution and the economic growth that will bring new jobs and opportunities to communities right across England'.
The specific changes are tailored to the unique needs of each area. For instance, in Gloucestershire, seven councils will merge into one unitary authority, aiming to unite the Gloucester-Cheltenham growth corridor and the Golden Valley cyber cluster. Derby and Derbyshire will see ten councils reorganised into two unitaries, allowing Derby to expand while reflecting the county's distinct north/south geographies. Similarly, Warwickshire and Worcestershire will each see their multiple councils reorganised into two unitaries, designed to address specific community needs and economic identities.
The government confirmed that decisions on West Sussex, Cambridgeshire, and Peterborough are still pending. Ministers require additional time to consider the available options before making final determinations for these areas. This ongoing process underscores the government's commitment to delivering simplified, more efficient local authorities, reducing administrative waste, and ensuring residents no longer navigate fragmented services across different council tiers.