MHCLG publishes new local government reorganisation digital and cyber playbook

UK Authority News reported that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published a new Local Government Reorganisation Digital and Cyber Playbook, designed to help councils navigate the digital, data, and cybersecurity implications of structural change.

Developed collaboratively with local and central government, sector bodies, and suppliers, the playbook provides practical guidance, reusable templates, and case studies from councils that have already undergone reorganisation. It is aimed at digital leaders — including chief digital officers, CIOs, heads of digital and IT — as well as cybersecurity specialists and senior officers responsible for ensuring that transition plans meet best‑practice standards.

Ben Cheetham, head of local digital at MHCLG, highlighted the breadth of sector involvement:

“We’re incredibly grateful to colleagues across the sector who contributed their insights. We hope the playbook becomes a valuable guide for councils as they prepare for day one and lay strong foundations for the future.”

Core focus areas

The first edition concentrates on three priority themes identified by councils:

• Day‑one readiness — outlining the essential cyber, digital, data, and technology requirements needed to ensure new councils can operate safely, legally, and effectively from the outset.
• Managing expectations — offering guidance on maintaining focus on critical transition projects while balancing wider organisational demands.
• Collaboration and baselining — encouraging early joint working, shared resources, and consistent baselines to support a smooth transition and enable future improvement.

Future development

MHCLG plans to expand the playbook with further guidance on cyber preparedness, service and data disaggregation, and digital leadership during transition. A roadmap sets out upcoming content and areas of focus, reflecting the intention for the resource to evolve alongside sector needs.

The initiative aims to ensure that digital, data, and cybersecurity considerations are embedded from the earliest stages of local government reorganisation, providing councils with structured, practical support throughout the process.