Hertfordshire’s 11 councils have today (Friday 4 July) launched the first phase of engagement as part of a joint programme to shape proposals for the future of local government in the county.
In a co-ordinated approach, all councils will engage with key strategic partners – including the NHS, police, education leaders, major employers, town and parish councils and voluntary and community sector groups – at both countywide and district and borough level.
The engagement is underpinned by four core principles: transparency, consistency, inclusion, and accessibility. All 11 councils in Hertfordshire are committed to working collaboratively and listening to a broad range of voices as they consider how local government in Hertfordshire could evolve. It aims to explore how future local government arrangements could better support shared priorities and improve services for residents.
This initial phase will focus on the principles and opportunities behind potential reorganisation options. It aims to build understanding of the process underway following the publication of the Government’s Devolution White Paper and invitation for all two-tier areas to submit proposals for creating a single tier of unitary councils. It will also explain the shared objectives of council leaders and gather input from strategic partners on how any future changes could support better local services and stronger accountability to ensure they are considered from the outset.
Engagement is also being undertaken with representative partners from town, parish, and community councils in Hertfordshire to research and formulate options for enhanced working with the new unitary councils when they are formed.
The Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, Cllr Jeremy Newmark, commented: “This initial phase is a precursor to our public engagement. It will focus on hearing from key strategic partners to shape early thinking.”
The second phase of engagement, which will be launched in the coming months, will provide residents and wider stakeholders with the opportunity to learn more about the potential options for the future of local government in Hertfordshire, ask questions, and share their views directly. Details of these engagement opportunities will be shared closer to the time.
Cllr Newmark added: “I stress again that our number one priority here in Hertsmere is to ensure the future changes benefit our local residents and businesses, maintain the high standard of service delivery and retain local accountability and identity.”
Councils will also be organising significant engagement with their staff during this period.
All 11 councils are working together to assess what local government structures would best serve Hertfordshire’s communities, services, and places. This is an opportunity to build a responsive and resilient system of local government - one that reflects local identity while unlocking long-term benefits for residents and communities.
Final proposals must be submitted to the government on 28 November 2025.
