The proposed local government reform submission papers are now live.
Following a county-wide consultation exercise, a proposed submission has been drafted by all eight authorities in Northamptonshire. This will be discussed by councillors at meetings across the county week commencing August 27.
Northamptonshire County Council’s councillors will meet on Tuesday, August 28.
All eight authorities in Northamptonshire have been asked by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to submit a proposal that meets the following criteria:
- A single county-wide unitary is explicitly excluded as an option
- Each new proposed authority must have a population substantially in excess of 300,000
- The proposal must be based on existing council boundaries
In addition to the criteria set out by the Secretary of State, Government has stated:
- Only one proposal will be accepted, not a range of options
- It must demonstrate clear potential for savings
- It must command a good deal of local support
- Due consideration should be given to recommendations in the Best Value Report
- Any solution should prioritise the Government’s wider housing and growth agenda
- Extensive consultation must be carried out
If two or more councils decide to submit a proposal, it will be sent to the Government on 31 August, signed by those who have decided to do so.