Local gov reshuffle vision outlined for Leicestershire

A detailed 100-page blueprint setting out the benefits of re-shaping local government in Leicestershire has been published.

The draft compares different options and concludes that one, single unitary council – bringing together the eight county and district councils - offers the best opportunity to save money, reduce duplication and protect front line services.

In 2018, council leader Nick Rushton revealed that he wanted to ‘start a conversation’ about re-drawing local government in the county, and, more recently, an independent review of the draft strategic business case by Price Waterhouse Coopers says it represents a sound basis for presenting potential savings and planning next steps.

If approved, the document, which will be discussed by the cabinet on 22 October, will be considered by the Scrutiny Commission a week later, before being put before the cabinet on 22 November and the county council on 4 December.  

Rushton said: “In my view, unitary local government works. Creating a council fit for the 21st century would save £30 million each year, improve services, reduce confusion and duplication and get a better deal for our residents. Local government still faces severe, long-term financial challenges – and these are likely to get worse since the government is having to delay its fair funding review.  

“Add in the backdrop of national uncertainty, and that’s why we need to be ready for a new government and a new domestic policy agenda, particularly if it continues to be dominated by tackling the shortage of funding for local services. I look forward to hearing the views of the Scrutiny Commission and hope that in December, the county council can agree a settled position.”