Derbyshire's Local Government Reorganisation Plans: Unitary Authorities and Elected Mayors

Strategic Insights -

The Labour Government's proposed Local Government Reorganisation plans for Derbyshire include setting up two unitary authorities, with an elected mayor, by merging or scrapping existing councils in two-tier authority areas. Currently, Derbyshire operates under a system of county, district, and borough councils. The proposed changes aim to create more efficient and effective local government, with a stronger voice at regional and national levels.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 'One Derbyshire, Two Councils' proposal suggests dividing the county into two unitary authorities, with the northern council having a population of 584,000 and the southern council having a population of 494,000 (Option A).
  • The proposal aims to achieve annual savings of between £56m to £93m over five years through reduced duplication of services, fewer council buildings, and better economies of scale.
  • Three options are being considered for dividing the two proposed unitary councils, including placing Amber Valley Borough Council entirely in the northern or southern council, or dividing it between the two (Options A, B, and C).
  • The Government has argued that LGR plans will include elected mayors with more powers on planning and transport, and that changes will create savings, improve public services, and support economic growth.
  • Critics are concerned about the loss of district and borough councils, a risk of greater Government control, and the removal of local decision-making.

Ms. Karen Hanson, Chief Executive of Bolsover District Council, stated that council staff will stay the same under TUPE transfer regulations and councillors will remain in the council to allow for new councillors to be elected. The proposed restructure aims to maintain Derbyshire's historic borders and strengthen its voice at regional and national levels.

Statistics:

  • The proposed two unitary authorities will cover a population of approximately 1.1 million people (Option C).
  • The 'One Derbyshire, Two Councils' proposal is expected to achieve annual savings of between £56m to £93m over five years.
  • The Government has set a deadline of November 28 for final proposals to be submitted, with a final decision expected in the summer of 2026.
  • Elections for the new shadow authorities are expected to take place in May 2027, and new councils will start operating by April 1, 2028.

Sources:

  • Bolsover District Council's Chief Executive Karen Hanson: Full Council meeting, July 30, 2023.
  • 'One Derbyshire, Two Councils' proposal document.
  • Derbyshire County Council's questionnaire available online.
  • LGR plans consultation online at https://bit.ly/Derbyshire-consultation.
  • Government LGR plans document.