A plan for a brand new council - putting residents first, empowering communities and reinvesting millions into frontline services that matter most – has been submitted to the Government.
Leicestershire County Council has now sent off its blueprint for 21st century local government which unites Leicestershire and Rutland under a single council and aims to preserve local identity while delivering smarter, more responsive governance.
Independently verified analysis shows that the plan will save around £40 million every year by cutting duplication and streamlining leadership - money that goes straight back into vital services for residents.
Transition costs are paid back within just a couple of years.
This is the right choice for our communities, our finances and our future. It’s a historic moment for local government in our area and a chance to build a council that’s leaner, more efficient and better equipped to meet future challenges.
Our plan features local area and planning committees, along the lines of the North Yorkshire Council model, liked by Government and recognised as a success.
We've worked with Scrutiny leads, local businesses and stakeholders to shape our final proposals, backed by a strong, cross-party majority.
Person:Council leader, Dan Harrison
The Government wants to move away from ‘two tier’ local government and, in February, asked councils to work up final plans for change by the end of November.
The Government will now consider proposals and consult on their preferred options next year.
Councillor Harrison added: “As leader, I remain opposed to any expansion of Leicester’s boundaries and have called for a Government-funded referendum if such plans emerge. Re-drawing the map would mean destroying Leicestershire’s history and identity. Our plan protects and recognises Rutland's ceremonial status, and is about empowering our communities and giving more power to people to take decisions locally.
“We’re clear - this is about strengthening local democracy, not erasing history.”