One council for Norfolk plan submitted to Government

The Government is being urged to back plans for better services, local decision making and bigger savings, by replacing Norfolk's eight councils with one.

Norfolk County Council's cabinet has agreed to submit a business case which details how a single council for Norfolk would save £39.8 million per year and deliver the biggest benefits. The decision came after the case was discussed by full council, earlier today (25 September).

The Government wants to have fewer councils, known as unitary authorities, which run all services in their area. It has asked existing councils to submit detailed proposals by 26 September.

County council leader, Councillor Kay Mason Billig said: "You've told us you want value for money and the best council services for all our communities.

"Having one council for all of Norfolk - instead of splitting things up, two or three ways - is the best way of achieving that.

"One council would make your money go further, which means more to support services. Only by having one council would enough savings be delivered to give future councillors choices on where to set the level of Council Tax. Having more than one council would cost significantly more and make this virtually impossible.

"Under one council, it doesn't matter whether you live in Norwich or in a rural area or in a town, there is no postcode lottery - everyone is treated equally. I believe one council would be strong where it counts and local where it matters."

Norfolk currently has a county council and seven district councils. This means that, wherever you live, you will have some services provided by the county council (such as social care and highways) and some by a district council (such as waste collection and planning).

Norfolk County Council has proposed one new council, South Norfolk District Council proposed two and the remaining six district councils proposed three.

The county council's business case highlights a range of key benefits of having one council, including:

• Saving £39.8 million per year, compared to the current eight councils - money that can be invested in improving services
• Removing duplication and joining up services that are currently divided between councils, such as adult social services and housing
• A focus on meeting local needs, by setting priorities at neighbourhood area committees, closer working with town and parish councils and voluntary groups and delivering services through integrated neighbourhood teams
• Avoiding the risk of splitting up crucial, county-wide services such as adult social care, children's services and highways
• Being in a strong position to boost Norfolk's economy, by having a plan for the whole county

The report says: "The outcome of our comprehensive options appraisal is clear that the best option for Norfolk is a single unitary council. A single unitary council for the whole of Norfolk is the only option that fully meets the Government's criteria, ensures a robust, forward-looking model for Norfolk's future, generates the most savings, has the lowest transition costs and will deliver better outcomes for communities."

The Government is due to consult the public on different council options this autumn, before making a final decision, expected in spring next year.

You can find out more at www.norfolk.gov.uk/onecouncil