THE Government has launched its statutory consultation on plans to reorganise the way local councils operate in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
The Government intends to abolish the two-tier system of councils which still operates in many areas of England and replace them with larger, more efficient single-tier unitary authorities with sensible boundaries.
It invited councils – including those in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland – to submit proposals for their areas.
The Government has now launched an online survey inviting organisations and residents to give their views on the three proposals put forward.
Leicester City Council’s proposal would create a larger city council with a sensible expansion of boundaries to include the built-up area, its suburbs and room for future growth. A second single-tier authority would cover the county/Rutland rural areas and market towns.
The proposal would result in balanced populations for the two local councils and achieve the Government’s guiding aim of 500,000 people or more in each new council area.
It would also mean future savings could be shared more equally, and the average cost per person of service delivery balanced more closely, between the two new unitary authorities.
City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This government consultation will give organisations and residents the chance to help shape the future of local government.
“We have a once in a generation opportunity to create a more rational and easily understood geography that reflects the city’s growth, with a new model of governance for the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland area that must secure local prosperity for decades to come.
“It is a huge challenge, but one that presents immense opportunities.
“The consultation is a chance for everyone to have their voice heard and share their views on proposals that will impact services and communities for the next half century or more.”
People can find out more about the Government consultation and complete an online survey at Proposals for local government reorganisation in Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland - GOV.UK
The consultation closes on 26 March.