Letter: Anyone Who Thinks Local Government Reorganisation Will Save Money Is Deluded

Published on: 12 Jan, 2025
Updated on: 12 Jan, 2025

From Peter Hyde

In response to: ‘Devolution’ is Happening ‘Whether We Like It or Not’ Warns County Council Leader

Genuinely local government will cease when the new devolution system is completed. There will still be three tiers of councils. A strategic authority with a Mayor with new personal powers, large more remote unitary councils plus town and parish councils. And no doubt new town councils for places like Guildford.

Power will be in fewer hands with small cabinets of members selected by council leaders. There will be a diminished role for most elected councillors.

Anyone who thinks this will save money is deluded. Back in 1974 as finance director of a new council created by a merger of eight smaller authorities I spent the first few months of my service attending public meeting to explain the substantial rate increases that year!