Reed pledges to complete local government reorganisation within this Parliament

Housing Secretary Steve Reed has told council leaders that the Government will complete the programme of local government reorganisation (LGR) before the end of this Parliament, confirming its commitment to ending two‑tier structures and moving to unitary authorities as part of the wider English devolution agenda.

Speaking at the Local Government Association annual conference on 7 July, Reed said the shift to single‑tier councils was essential to remove “costly duplication” and redirect savings into frontline services. He emphasised that reorganisation must proceed at pace to support the Government’s plans for mayoral devolution and to “rebalance wealth, power and opportunity across our country”.

Reed said ministers would work closely with local government to ensure service continuity during transition, stressing that “service safety is not just maintained, but is paramount”. The Government has already confirmed reorganisation proposals for several areas, with further decisions expected shortly.

Alongside structural reform, Reed outlined plans for “double devolution”, arguing that power can become “over‑centralised locally as well as nationally”. He said residents should have greater direct influence over local decisions, not only through elected representatives but through community‑level empowerment.

The Secretary of State also announced a forthcoming Neighbourhood Guarantee, setting minimum standards residents should expect from councils, including clean streets, well‑maintained green spaces and prompt action on issues such as fly‑tipping and graffiti. The guarantee will sit within a wider performance and accountability framework, including the new Local Outcomes Framework, a Local Audit Office to ensure timely and robust audits, and updated Best Value guidance. Initial Local Outcomes Framework results are due later this year.

For IoL members following ongoing developments in LGR and devolution, the Institute of Licensing’s LGR & Devolution Hub provides regularly updated resources, guidance and analysis.