Local Government Reorganisation: A shared future for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire County Council will hold an extraordinary Full Council meeting on 2 September 2025 to consider progressing a proposal for local government reorganisation across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. This follows extensive collaboration between the nine councils in the area, supported by specialist advice and analysis.

The government’s aim, set out in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, is to simplify local government structures in two-tier areas. The intention is to improve public services, strengthen local accountability, and unlock greater powers and funding for regions through streamlined unitary councils.

Three potential options have been assessed against six criteria set by government. Based on the evidence available, the Council is recommending the development of a proposal based on Option 1b: one unitary authority covering Broxtowe, Gedling and Nottingham City, and another covering Ashfield, Bassetlaw, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, and Rushcliffe.

This option is considered to best meet the government’s criteria, enabling the delivery of high-quality public services. It also allows services to be shaped around communities with shared characteristics and needs.

The proposal is subject to approval at the upcoming Full Council meeting, followed by further development and final approval before submission to government in November 2025.

Councillor Mick Barton, Leader of the Council, said:

“We’ve taken a thorough and collaborative approach to looking at all the options, and the recommendation backs up what we believe is the best fit for our communities. But this is not a done deal. The government will need to think about the proposal carefully, and we respect that process. Our job now is to make sure the final submission is strong, will include everyone and is focused on delivering better services for local people.”

Further work with partners and all parties will take place to shape the final proposal. As part of this process, a public engagement survey is currently live and open until 14 September 2025. Residents, businesses, and local organisations are strongly encouraged to take part and share their views. The feedback will help inform the final proposal and ensure it reflects local priorities.

The live survey for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire can be accessed here: https://lgrnotts.org/share-your-views