Purpose

A report to consider proposals for a single tier of local government for Warwickshire in response to a statutory invitation received from Government.

Decision

The Labour Government, through the Devolution White Paper, has directed all two-tier Local Authority areas shall become Unitary Councils by 2028. Consultation will be undertaken by the Secretary of State through their department.

It is crucial that future Unitary Government is not remote from local communities and engagement with them is embedded within future structures.

The County of Warwickshire has a strong heritage and identity which should be preserved and strengthened for future generations.

The Council therefore:

1. Will develop a proposal to Government for unitary local government for Warwickshire which meets the guidance, criteria and time frames set out by Government.

1. Seeks to quickly establish clarity from Government regarding the model to be progressed to enable the best use of time and resource.

1. Commits to engage with Districts, Boroughs, Towns, Parishes and Communities in developing proposals, both existing and future emerging arrangements.

1. Recognises the importance of the boundary and the identity of the County of Warwickshire in any proposals and will work with regional partners.

1. Will continue to strive for the economic prosperity of the area even against adverse national headwinds.

1. Agrees to establish a cross-party working group to support this work.