Views are being sought on options for the future shape of local government in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
From today, Leicestershire County Council is asking residents, businesses, town and parish councils, public sector organisations and staff for feedback.
The Government wants to move away from ‘two tier’ local government and asked councils to work up final plans for change by the end of November.
The council is assessing a number of options and the latest analysis shows that from a county perspective, a single unitary council for Leicestershire and Rutland is the most beneficial for services and for securing financial viability.
“This is the biggest shake up of local government in 50 years. It’s important and it’s complex and could unlock the greater prize of devolution, bringing more powers and funding for Leicestershire.
“We have no choice other than to make a final submission at the end of November – and we will do that.
“Based on the evidence gathered so far, the administration is proposing a single county unitary for Leicestershire and Rutland as its preferred option. We want to hear what people think.
“Given the Government’s invitation to the City Council to extend its boundaries, our proposal will identify the consequences for the county of an extended Leicester boundary.”
Person:Dan Harrison, leader of Leicestershire County Council
The county council has worked with the city council on a financial model so that the data and assumptions across different proposals are consistent. The district councils chose to take their own approach.
The analysis shows that a single council for Leicestershire and Rutland would save around £40 million each year, through fewer senior officers and elected members and reduced back-office costs and spend on services.
One-off transition costs are significant but paid back in a couple of years.
Options to extend the city save similar amounts but incur ongoing costs of splitting up services and split the savings between city and county.
"We need to put Leicestershire’s residents first. Our focus is on securing a viable future council – with sustainable finances, joined up services, strong communities and sensible geography.
“I would not be happy to cede land to Leicester City and will do my absolute best for that not to happen.
“Re-drawing the map shouldn’t mean destroying Leicestershire’s history and identity. It’s about empowering our communities and giving more power to people to take decisions locally.”
Person:Councillor Harrison
People can give views until 27 October by completing a short online form on the dedicated webpage.
Feedback will help to shape the final plan which needs to be submitted by the Government’s 28 November deadline.