This page brings together key facts about the Government’s plans to significantly change the way local councils are set up across England, including in Nottinghamshire.
Here you’ll find information on what’s happening, the proposals being developed, answers to common questions, and how you can have your say. The page will be updated regularly as the process moves forward.
Background
In late 2024, the Government published a white paper describing a national programme of devolution and reform to local government.
It means that the way local councils in England are organised is being fundamentally changed for the first time in 50 years.
In places like Nottinghamshire, local services are currently delivered under what is known as a ‘two-tier’ council structure.
This means that some services are delivered by a borough or district council, and others are provided by Nottinghamshire County Council. Within Nottinghamshire, we also have Nottingham City Council which is a ‘unitary’ council providing all services to the communities it serves.
Between them, these councils are responsible for a vast range of local services. The county council provides things like social care for children and adults, education services and transport, while district and borough councils are responsible for services such as bin collections, planning, and leisure centres. Nottingham City Council provides all of these council services to the communities it serves.
This structure dates back to 1974. The way we live our lives has changed substantially since then, and the Government believes services could be delivered more efficiently and effectively by having fewer councils.
In February 2025, the Government asked local councils to work together to draw up initial proposals for new organisations that are:
- Simpler and more efficient
- Better value for money
- Closer to communities
- Able to deliver joined-up services.
Engagement
We are planning to share our proposals on the future of local government and what it means for you. The engagement will last for six weeks from Monday 4 August to Sunday 14 September 2025.
It’s your opportunity to share your views before any final decisions are made.
The results of the consultation will be used to shape our final proposal to the Government in November 2025. A Government decision on the final proposals that are submitted for Nottinghamshire is not expected until spring 2026.