Controversial plan for Leicestershire and Rutland councils restructure withdrawn

Approved proposals to streamline local government by creating one super council covering Leicestershire and Rutland and an expanded Leicester city authority were recently paused following Andy Burnham taking over as Prime Minister.

And this morning it was announced that the plans – which would have started in April 2028 and resulted in the abolition of district councils including Melton Borough Council - had been scrapped.

Wednesday’s announced proposals to create a Mayoral authority governing Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remain in place but it is unclear what kind of council structure will be created or if the current two-tier set-up will continue.

Local councils say services will continue and the local elections scheduled for May 6, 2027 will go ahead as planned.

Responding to today’s announcement, Dan Harrison (Reform UK), leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “This is a victory for people power and the government’s U-turn is extremely welcome.

“Our legal challenge to a city expansion was already underway and I’d like to praise our residents who have fought against this for a long time.

“It’s true that reshaping local councils can offer huge benefits.

“I remain convinced that the proposal we submitted to government, simplifying services, saving £40M a year and empowering communities, offers the best solution for the future.

“But national decision making has been shambolic at best.

“However, yesterday’s announcement about devolving powers to our area is a step in the right direction.

"It offers an opportunity to build a better Leicestershire.

"A new mayor offers new money and a new Mayoral Strategic Authority is the strongest platform for growth and investment for the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.”

Councillor Christine Wise (Liberal Democrats), leader of Rutland County Council, commented: "When the pause was first announced, we pushed ministers to use this time to reconsider their options and give us more evidence to support the decision they announced in July – placing Rutland into one of only two unitary authorities covering the whole of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR).

“Government has today confirmed it is withdrawing the decision for LLR that was made in July.

"Officials have stressed that the government remains committed to LGR but wants more time to consider its options and choose the best route forward.

"While it's encouraging that ministers are giving serious consideration to the concerns that have been raised, we will continue to push for the government to take an evidence-led approach to LGR.”

And Cllr Jewel Miah (Labour), Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “This is a significant decision that will affect local communities and thousands of local government employees across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland for many years to come.

"I therefore welcome the government’s decision to take further time to consider the proposals before reaching its final decision.

“It is important that we get this right.

"We have been advised that the government intends to make a final decision in the new year, which will provide greater certainty and allow the area to move forward.

“In the meantime, Charnwood Borough Council will remain focused on delivering high-quality services for residents, businesses and communities across the borough.”

The Melton Times is awaiting comment from Melton Borough Council.