The Government has announced its decision on the future of local government in Hertfordshire, confirming that the county will move to a four-unitary council model, subject to Parliamentary approval.

The decision follows the Government’s consultation earlier this year, during which residents, councils and organisations were invited to comment on three different proposals for reorganising local government across the county.

At present, local services are split between Hertfordshire County Council and the county’s district and borough councils. Under the new arrangements, these councils will be replaced by four new unitary authorities, each responsible for delivering all local government services within their area. The changes are expected to come into effect from 1 April 2028, subject to Parliamentary approval.

For residents in East Hertfordshire, this means the district is expected to form part of the new East Hertfordshire unitary authority, alongside Broxbourne Borough Council.

The announcement has prompted a wide range of reactions across Hertfordshire. While some believe the changes will simplify local government and improve the way services are delivered, others have expressed disappointment that the Government did not choose one of the alternative proposals considered during the consultation.

If you would like to find out more about the Government’s decision, including the consultation outcome, summary of responses and the proposed new council boundaries, further information is available on the Government’s website: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/local-government-reorganisation-in-hertfordshire

Or you can find out more here: https://www.hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk/post/government-announces-four-unitary-authorities-in-hertfordshire