The Government has today announced consultations on local government reorganisation in the six areas which are part of the Devolution Priority Programme.

In response, Cllr Richard Wright, Chair of the District Councils’ Network, said: “It’s to be welcomed that the Government is consulting on a broad range of proposals from councils to reorganise local government.

“The views of local people, who know their area best, should be absolutely central to determining the future of local government, rather than Whitehall imposing structures which pay no heed to local identity.

“We firmly expect local people to endorse proposals to keep councils close to communities, rather than impose mega councils, has they have recently in Surrey and in countless previous reorganisations. It’s essential they’re listened to, whatever they say.

“There’s no independent evidence that mega councils are better performing or more financially resilient – smaller unitary councils often deliver more effective services and are every bit as effective at driving growth and getting homes built.”