Councillor Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, has welcomed greater clarity from Government following today's announcement on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), while recognising that the revised timetable will extend uncertainty for our residents and businesses.
The Government has confirmed that it is withdrawing and reconsidering its previous decision on the future structure of local government in Hertfordshire.
All options previously submitted remain on the table and councils are not being asked to resubmit proposals, although the government will take account of representations made since the original decisions were announced.
While this will delay implementation by around a year, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to both local government reorganisation and devolution.
Cllr Jeremy Newmark said:
“We recognise that residents, businesses and councillors will have questions about what this means for the future of local government in our county. We will take time to assess the detail of the announcement, work closely with our partners across Hertfordshire and engage constructively with the next stages of the process.
“The Government has reiterated its commitment to both local government reorganisation and devolution. For Hertfordshire, this means the overall direction of travel remains unchanged although implementation of LGR is now expected to be delayed by a year.
“Whatever future arrangements emerge, our commitment to the people of Hertsmere remains the same: providing value for money, protecting vital services and ensuring our communities continue to thrive.
“While the national process continues, residents can be assured that we remain fully focused on delivering for them every day.”