An outline of the programme of local government reorganisation for two-tier areas and neighbouring unitary councils, including Government updates and key milestones.
Background and context
On 5 February 2025, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution Jim McMahon, wrote to all councils in two-tier areas and small neighbouring unitary authorities to formally invite proposals for local government reorganisation (LGR).
All councils have now submitted proposals for reorganisation in their areas, and decisions have been announced on 19 of the 21 areas.
In Surrey, elections to the two new councils took place in May 2026 ahead of vesting day on 1 April 2027.
In other areas, it is the Government’s intention for elections to new councils to be held on 6 May 2027, ahead of vesting day on 1 April 2028.
The LGA has a strong track record of supporting councils at every stage of devolution and local government reorganisation (LGR), including addressing specific challenges such as workforce implications. Our universal support offer remains available to all councils, along with our dedicated LGR support offer. To find out more, including details of additional tailored support, we encourage areas to contact their Principal Advisers’.
Key announcements and updates from Government
Ministerial briefings and updates from Government to all areas going through LGR can be read on the MHCLG website which is updated regularly.