Rutland Council Gears Up for Crucial Devolution Meeting Amidst Rapid Change
Rutland County Council has announced a pivotal Special Council Meeting on March 11th, set to address the rapidly evolving landscape of devolution and local government reorganisation. The meeting, scheduled for 7:00 PM at Catmose Offices in Oakham and streamed live online, comes as national government pushes forward with its ambitious plans to reshape England's local authorities.
The government's white paper on devolution outlines a vision for large, strategic authorities led by elected mayors, tasked with managing crucial regional issues like transport, skills, and economic growth. A key component of this overhaul is the elimination of the current two-tier system, necessitating the merging of district, borough, and county councils into larger unitary structures.
With a looming March 21st deadline for interim plans, Rutland County Council, alongside Leicestershire's district and borough councils, is working diligently to meet the government's demanding timetable. The urgency stems from the government's desire to see the end of the current local government structure, replaced with larger, more efficient unitary authorities.
The initial proposal from Leicestershire County Council suggested a single unitary authority serving 800,000 residents across the entire county. However, after collaborative discussions, a preference has emerged for a three-unitary model:
North Leicestershire and Rutland: Encompassing Charnwood, North West Leicestershire, Melton, and Rutland.
South Leicestershire: Including Blaby, Harborough, Hinckley & Bosworth, and Oadby & Wigston.
Leicester City: Maintaining its current boundaries.
The March 11th meeting will provide Rutland councillors with an opportunity to deliberate on these proposals, ensuring they align with the government's criteria before the interim plan submission.
Crucially, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has clarified that the March deadline serves as a checkpoint, ensuring collaborative progress rather than a definitive commitment. The interim plans can outline multiple potential options, allowing for flexibility as discussions continue.
Councillor Gale Waller, Leader of Rutland County Council, emphasised the rapid pace of change, stating, "A lot has happened in a few short weeks and the devolution process is continuing to move at pace because of the timescales set by national government. Despite this, we remain at an early stage and the development of an interim plan for 21 March does not commit us to anything."
Waller highlighted the factors considered in the proposed unitary model, including population size, commuting patterns, economic opportunities, and the local job market. "Based on this, the option for unitary authorities in the north and south, and the city, seems to offer the best balance. However, it’s still only one option," she said.
Recognising the importance of public input, Rutland County Council is actively seeking feedback from residents, businesses, and local partners. An online platform has been established to provide information and gather views, with more comprehensive public engagement planned for the summer. The final proposals, due by November 28th, 2025, will also be subject to a government consultation, ensuring ample opportunity for public participation.
The upcoming Special Council Meeting marks a critical step in Rutland's response to the government's devolution agenda. As the council navigates this period of significant change, public engagement remains crucial in shaping the future of local governance. Residents are encouraged to visit the council's Devolution page to stay informed and share their perspectives.
www.rutland.gov.uk/council-councillors/devolution-local-government-reorganisation
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