Councils given flexibility for reorganisation

Councils that are facing reform have been invited to share their views on postponing elections next year to release capacity to deliver these vital reforms.  

Ministers have written to affected local authorities after some said elections could divert substantial time and resources away from delivering local government reorganisation.

Some new councillors could serve only briefly before their councils are replaced with new ones.

There are 204 councils across 21 areas undergoing reorganisation. 63 of these councils are scheduled to hold elections in May 2026.

Ministers have now invited these 63 areas to set out their views on the potential postponement of local elections in their areas and their local capacity to deliver local government reorganisation alongside elections. 

Councils have been given until 15 January to respond.

Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness, Alison McGovern said: "We have listened to councils who’ve told us of the challenges they face reorganising while preparing for resource-intensive elections for areas which may shortly be abolished.

"Several have submitted requests to postpone elections so it is therefore right we let them have their say so they can focus their time and energy on providing vital services while planning for reorganisation.

"Our goal is to create new councils who can improve services for residents and it is only right that we listen to councils."