Plans for major overhaul of councils halted
The UK government has paused plans to merge several local councils following new legal advice and a review of administrative priorities. The government intends to ensure that the reorganisation process is legally robust and aligns with the current administration's goals.
Why it matters
This decision impacts the structure of local governance in England, affecting how public services are delivered and managed across multiple regions.
Image source, PA Media By Becky Morton Political reporter Published 7 September 2026, 13:52 BST Updated Just now Plans for a major shake-up of local government are on hold, after the government launched a review in light of new legal advice.
Proposals to merge smaller councils to form larger authorities in Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk have been withdrawn.
Meanwhile, plans for 14 other areas will also be reviewed and paused.
Reorganisation in Surrey, where councillors for two new unitary authorities were elected in May, will not be affected by the review.
The government confirmed local elections in May 2027 would go ahead on existing council boundaries.
Communities Secretary Angela Rayner will announce the review in Parliament later.
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