Reorganisation plans for councils have been put on hold as the government launches a review following new legal advice.
A review of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) plans for Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk has been launched in light of new legal advice, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) revealed.
In addition to these areas, 14 other reorganisation proposals, including new boundaries in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and West Sussex, have also been paused and are under further review.
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner commented: “As we are now determined more than ever to devolve power closer to the people we represent, it’s only right that as the new Secretary of State I make sure that everything we do is working towards that plan to change Britain.”
Despite this, the MHCLG confirmed the May 2027 council elections will still go ahead on existing boundaries and stated it remains committed to LGR.
The news comes after a summer of local councils launching legal challenges against the government over reorganisation decisions in their areas.
Cllr Sean Matthews, chair-elect of the County Councils network, said: “With the government clearly listening to our concerns, we now stand ready to work with ministers. Where reorganisation is desired, this review must ensure a robust, legally compliment process in line with the original criteria.”
