The Government has confirmed that Norfolk will be restructured into three unitary councils, following its review of how local services could be delivered more effectively and sustainably across the county.
This means a brand-new Greater Norwich City Council will be created alongside a new West Norfolk Council and East Norfolk Council.
The new model will bring together existing responsibilities from county and district councils into three new organisations designed to reflect local identity and service needs.
For Norfolk, this means the existing eight local councils across the county will be abolished by April 2028 and replaced with three new unitary authorities – each providing all local council services for that region.
Leader of Norwich City Council, Cllr Mike Stonard, said:
“This is a momentous day for our city and the best decision possible for Norwich, for Norfolk, and for everyone who lives, works, and seeks to thrive in our county.
“Given the last time we underwent local government reorganisation in our region was some 50 years ago, this presents us with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape local services to meet modern day demands and of course recognise the role of our cities as economic and cultural capitals that drive growth.
“Our case for a Greater Norwich City Council as part of three unitary councils for Norfolk was strong. It clearly resonated with the Government, who have today given the go ahead for us to proceed with its delivery. We know from our engagement work that it was also supported by large swathes of people in Norfolk.
“The three unitary model acknowledges Norwich’s status as a major regional city and also ensures that other areas – including North Norfolk, the Broads, Brecks and Fens, retain their identities and characteristics. Norwich City Council is committed to working with all councils and our many partners across Norfolk to ensure that the new unitary council model delivers for residents.
“Norwich is ambitious, unique, and strong and the creation of a new Greater Norwich City Council will realise our city’s full potential. We know that when Norwich succeeds, Norfolk succeeds.
“Up to the point where the new Greater Norwich City Authority comes into being in April 2028 there is an incredible amount of work to do. Our focus will be laying the foundations for this new council to succeed and ensuring that, from day one, it is able to meet the needs and expectations of residents.
Cllr Stonard continued: “We will set the right foundation for long-term sustainable growth and prosperity; deliver transformed services better tailored to the needs of our residents; ensure a strong platform for local voices and democratic representation.
“As a collective, our plans to do this are already advanced, and through our now well-established collaborative partnerships, we will deliver Norfolk’s exciting and prosperous future together”.
Read the Secretary of State’s statement
Over the coming weeks and months we are expecting further details to be published from the Government on the transition programme, including timescales and governance arrangements.
