Nottinghamshire County Council is to hold an extraordinary Full Council meeting on the 2nd September 2025, to consider progressing a proposal for local government reorganisation across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
The move follows extensive collaboration between the nine councils in the region, supported by specialist advice and analysis, and aligns with the government’s aims under the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill to simplify two-tier structures and unlock greater powers and funding.
Three options have been assessed against six government criteria. Based on current evidence, the Council is recommending one that would see the formation of one unitary authority covering Broxtowe, Gedling and Nottingham City, as well as another covering Ashfield, Bassetlaw, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, and Rushcliffe
This option is considered to best meet the criteria for delivering high-quality public services, improving local accountability, and shaping services around communities with shared characteristics and needs.
Nottinghamshire County Council Leader Cllr Mick Barton commented:
“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.”
To ensure the final proposal reflects local priorities, a public engagement survey is now live and open until 14 September 2025. Residents, businesses, and local organisations are strongly encouraged to take part and share their views.
Feedback from the survey will help inform the final proposal, which – if approved at the Full Council meeting – will be further developed and submitted to government in November 2025.
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