Councils begin engagement on the future of local government in Hertfordshire
It's in line with the government's push for devolution, set to offer more power to local authorities
Hertfordshire’s 11 councils have launched the first phase of engagement as part of a joint programme to develop proposals for the future structure of local government in the county.
This engagement will involve key strategic partners – including the NHS, police, education leaders, major employers, town and parish councils, and voluntary and community sector organisations – at both county-wide and district/borough levels.
The process is made up of four core principles: transparency, consistency, inclusion, and accessibility.
The councils are working together to listen to a broad range of views and explore how local government arrangements in Hertfordshire might evolve to support shared priorities and improve services for residents.
The focus of this initial phase is on understanding the principles and opportunities behind various potential reorganisation options.
It will also provide information about the context of this work, which follows the Government’s Devolution White Paper and its invitation for two-tier areas to propose a move to single-tier unitary councils.
The engagement will also explain the shared objectives of council leaders and seek input from strategic partners on how any future changes could help deliver improved services and accountability.
Town, Parish and Community Councils across Hertfordshire are also being consulted to support the development of potential approaches for working with any new unitary councils that may be formed.
Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, said: "This is an important milestone.
"Listening to the views of our partners, residents and colleagues across Hertfordshire is essential to developing proposals that will help us maintain and improve local government services in the long-term and ensure strong democratic accountability continues to be available to communities across the county."
A second phase of engagement will begin in the coming weeks, which will offer residents and wider stakeholders the chance to learn more about potential options for local government in Hertfordshire, ask questions, and provide feedback.
Councils will also be conducting engagement with their staff during this period.
All 11 councils are jointly assessing what structures would best serve Hertfordshire’s residents, communities and businesses.
The aim is to consider how a future model of local government could continue to reflect local identity while delivering long-term benefits and improved outcomes for the people of Hertfordshire.
Final proposals must be submitted to the government by 28 November 2025.