Councillors draw up five principles for future of local government in Cambridgeshire

Councillors have debated the future structure of local government in Cambridgeshire, focusing on how best to deliver efficient, high-quality services for residents.

The debate follows the publication of the English Devolution White Paper, which sets out the Government’s ambition to abolish two-tier councils and create unitary authorities across England.

Councillors have been exploring the benefits and challenges, ensuring that any reorganisation meets key criteria set by the Government, including efficiency, financial stability and effective service delivery.

Cambridgeshire County Council is committed to ensuring that any proposals align with the following five principles:

1.Size – proposals should aim for a size of population as close as possible to the government target figure of 500,000 while also recognising the needs of local geography, and that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is a fast-growing area.

2.Sustainability – The structure should support long-term financial stability and enable efficient service delivery.

3.Safety – Changes should minimise disruption to vital services, especially social care for vulnerable residents.

4.Simplicity – Existing district boundaries should be used where possible to limit complexity and costs.

5.Synchronicity – New authorities should align with other public sector boundaries to enhance partnership working and service integration.

Cambridgeshire County Council, Peterborough City Council, Huntingdonshire District Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council, Fenland District Council, Cambridge City Council, and South Cambridgeshire District Council had to submit their initial proposals for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area by Friday, March 21.

The Council will continue working with these partners and central government to shape proposals. When the time is right, it will also engage with residents, Members of Parliament, and partners across policing, the NHS, the fire service, as well as town and parish councils.

Leader of Cambridgeshire County Council, Cllr Lucy Nethsingha, said: “Given the government’s determination to push ahead with local government reorganisation, it is important that we engage seriously with that intention.

“If new unitary councils are to be created for our area it is vital that they are set up to be successful for the long term. It is also crucial that they cover areas that residents recognise as the places in which they live. I will continue to work closely with Leaders across our area to ensure that any new councils work for the benefit of all residents in our area and that no places are left behind.”

Deputy Leader Cllr Elisa Meschini, added: “Reorganisation must be guided by clear principles to deliver the best for our communities. By focusing on size, sustainability, safety, simplicity and synchronicity, we can create a system that not only delivers effective services but also renews and reinvigorates local democracy and engagement.”

Further updates will be provided as the process develops.