Have your say on future of local government
Communities are encouraged to have their say in a government consultation on the future of local government in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
The government is seeking views on three different proposals to reorganise the existing 10 councils into a smaller number of unitary councils which would each deliver all services.
A seven-week consultation is now underway with views sought on the following proposals:
- Two councils with an expanded Leicester city boundary and a single council for the rest of Leicestershire and Rutland (proposed by Leicester City Council)
- Two councils with one single council for Leicestershire and Rutland and one for Leicester on its existing boundary (proposed by Leicestershire County Council)
- Three councils with a council for north Leicestershire and Rutland, a council for south Leicestershire and one for the city on its existing boundary. It is called the North, City, South proposal (proposed by the seven district and borough councils and Rutland County Council)
Cllr Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council and speaking on behalf of the Leaders of the North, City, South councils, said: “We are proud of what our councils deliver and do not believe the system is broken, but the government has made it clear that things have to change across the whole country. Therefore, this represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reset and reimagine local government in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, and our proposal offers the best option available.
“The eight North, City, South councils have worked hard to develop a proposal which would deliver three strong, financially sustainable councils, capable of improving services and accelerating economic growth.
“Our proposal is built on collaboration, evidence and engagement, with thousands of residents helping to shape the final document. If things need to change, we believe North, City, South is the best way forward for our communities.
“I strongly urge residents, businesses, partners and organisations to take part in this this consultation and have their say.”
The North, City, South Councils say their plan would:
- ensure councils remain connected to communities
- retain Leicester's current city boundary
- deliver more prevention focused services to improve lives and reduce demand
- save over £44 million a year
- create three financially sustainable councils
- support devolution and accelerate economic growth
- commit to retaining Rutland’s historic name and civic status
Have your say in the online government consultation.
The deadline for responses is 11:59pm on 26 March 2026.
Government is expected to choose a final proposal by the summer and the new authorities are due to come into effect from 2028.
For more information about the North, City, South proposal, visit www.northcitysouth.co.uk.