Agenda item

Executive Summary

Following the publication of the English Devolution White Paper in December 2024, Norfolk's acceptance onto the Devolution Priority Programme early 2025, and the submission of Interim Plan proposals in March 2025; the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution invited Norfolk’s councils to submit final proposals for local government reorganisation (LGR) in Norfolk by 26 September 2025.

North Norfolk District Council, Breckland District Council Broadland District Council, Great Yarmouth Borough Council, the Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk and Norwich City Council have prepared a submission for a three-unitary model for LGR in Norfolk, in accordance with the decisions taken by those authorities in submitting interim proposals to Government in March of this year.

This report summarises the detailed development of the three unitary proposal over recent weeks, the current position and next steps. The final proposal – “Future Norfolk – People, Place and Progress – the Power of Three” is annexed to this report. It has been developed collaboratively, under the oversight of the respective Leaders and Chief Executives and in line with the Government’s guidance and with the support of consultants Inner Circle Consulting who were procured jointly by the six authorities to support the development of a strong proposal for submission to Government.

Options considered

North Norfolk District Council’s position with respect to LGR was considered and agreed at Full Council on 19^th March 2025.  This report takes forward the decision agreed at that time.

At this point there are two options open to the Council:

Option:1: Continue in collaboration with partner authorities and submit the proposal for three new unitary authorities for Norfolk as detailed in the reports in the Annex - Future Norfolk – People, Place, Progress – The Power of Three to the Secretary of State (as per recommendation).

Option 2: Agree not to submit the proposal to Government (not recommended).

Consultation(s)

Internal consultation has included:

• Leader
• Chief Executive
• Section151 Officer
• Monitoring Officer
• Communications Manager

During the development of the proposal key stakeholders were engaged and a public survey conducted across Norfolk to assist with evidence and informing the proposal.  Norfolk’s Members of Parliament were also consulted on the proposal.

Recommendations

That Council:

1. Notes the content of this report and supporting documents detailing the proposal
2. Endorses the final proposal for a three-unitary model for local government reorganisation in Norfolk
3. Delegates to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, the approval and submission of the final proposal to the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution for consideration in accordance with the Government’s prescribed process

Reasons for recommendations

To respond to the statutory invitation from the Secretary of State to submit a final proposal for local government reorganisation in Norfolk.

This proposal for a three unitary model for local government in Norfolk offers a compelling and credible pathway to public service reform that is strategically aligned, financially sound and rooted in local identity. It positions Norfolk to deliver better outcomes for residents, strengthen democratic leadership, and contribute meaningfully to the Government’s wider devolution and public service transformation agenda. It is believed that, of the options available, this proposal has the potential to deliver lasting benefits for communities across Norfolk, and to support a model of governance that is fit for the future.

Background papers

“Future Norfolk: People, Place, Progress – The Power of Three” final proposals for a three unitary council model for Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk

Wards affected

All

Cabinet member(s)

Cllr. Tim Adams, Leader of the Council

Contact Officer

Steve Blatch – Chief Executive