Local Government Reorganisation
Update on Local Government Reorganisation in Worcestershire
On Thursday 29 October 2026 the Government confirmed that it is minded to proceed with the previously announced two-unitary model for Worcestershire following its review of the Local Government Reorganisation programme. It has also proposed a revised implementation timetable, with final decisions to be made after councils have had the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed arrangements.
Read the government's news release on the Local Government Reorganisation programme restarts.
In response, the seven Leaders of Worcestershire's existing councils issued this joint statement:
“The meeting with the Minister today, following Government’s review of Local Government Reorganisation, has given us some clarity around the decision taken in July, for a two unitary authority for Worcestershire, which is effectively unchanged.
“Government is minded to implement a North and a South Worcestershire by April 2029 however we won’t get confirmation of this until before Christmas.
“While this does not provide full certainty immediately, the Government reaffirming their original decision in July, along with our preparatory work, puts us in a strong position to respond to the Government’s decision.
“We now look forward to moving forward and remain committed to continuing to provide services to our residents while focussing on delivering the best possible outcomes for our communities across Worcestershire.”
Cllr Karen May, Leader of Bromsgrove District Council
Cllr John Gallagher, Leader of Malvern Hills District Council
Cllr Matt Dormer, Leader of Redditch Borough Council
Cllr Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council
Cllr Matt Jenkins, Leader of Worcestershire County Council
Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council
Cllr Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council
Changes coming to Worcestershire
The Government has announced the next steps for local government reorganisation in Worcestershire.
On 29 October 2026, the Government announced that it is minded to proceed with a proposal for two unitary councils in Worcestershire. This means a final decision has not yet been made. There will now be a period of at least three weeks for further representations before the Government makes its final decision.
Under the proposal, the existing county, city, district and borough councils would eventually be replaced by two new unitary councils. These councils would bring local services together under one council for each area.
Read the Government announcement
How and when the changes will happen
The timetable has changed following the Government's review.
Local elections will take place in May 2027 on existing council boundaries. The Government says the new councils would be established in 2029, with elections to shadow councils taking place in May 2028.
A shadow council is a temporary body made up of newly elected councillors which prepares for the new council to begin operating.
Until the new arrangements are introduced, existing councils will continue to provide local services.
Impact on services
For now, there is no change to the council services you use.
Our focus remains on making sure residents, businesses and communities continue to receive the services and support they rely on.
We will keep this page updated as more information becomes available and once the Government has made its final decision.