Observatory
May 9 2024
The Nottinghamshire Observatory offers insight and analysis of the latest local trends to help with research, funding bids and ultimately help attract more investment to the county.
Read moreA new report sets out drivers and options for re-shaping local government in Leicestershire.
The paper, published today (Friday) by Leicestershire County Council, outlines the financial challenges facing councils and assesses potential different unitary structures.
In the summer, council leader Nick Rushton, said he wanted to “start a conversation” about re-drawing the shape of local government in Leicestershire.
Nick Rushton said
The financial situation facing councils is bleak. And with service demands and national funding reductions ramping up, it’s clear we have to consider change.
Across Leicestershire, local government is facing millions of pounds of savings, meaning we simply can’t go on paying for old fashioned bureaucracy and duplication. “The time is right to explore the possible solutions to save money and join up services – this has to be about services for residents, not structures.
The cabinet report shows there is a strong case for a single unitary council but also assesses a two-council option. As I have said all along, I hope the district councils will put forward options themselves and I am pleased that they all now recognise that change is required.
This would be the biggest shake-up locally for almost 50 years. And that means working together with councillors and other stakeholders to draw up a new structure, fit for the 21st century, and I look forward to hearing their views.
Now, the county council plans to engage with MPs, district councils, parish and town councils, businesses, universities, the voluntary sector and other stakeholders.
A cross-party working group – to provide advice, challenge and feedback on proposals and next steps – is being set up and is due to feedback to cabinet next spring. Dependent on the outcome of this engagement, a public consultation could follow in the summer.
The report will be considered by the cabinet on 16 October – watch the meeting online.
The report says:
A unitary structure could
Read the report: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/newcouncil
Observatory
May 9 2024
The Nottinghamshire Observatory offers insight and analysis of the latest local trends to help with research, funding bids and ultimately help attract more investment to the county.
Read moreGreen Growth
May 8 2024
Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Claire Coutinho, and Minister for Nuclear and Renewables, Andrew Bowie, announce industry competition to find engineering and construction partners for the UK’s prototype fusion energy plant.
Read moreEconomic Opportunities
May 3 2024
Representatives from global industry giants, along with politicians and key figures from higher education, attended a high-profile event at the House of Lords on Tuesday (30th April) to celebrate the University of Derby’s Business School.
Read more