Hertfordshire residents asked to share views on proposed local government reforms

Residents and organisations in Hertfordshire have until next week to provide feedback on proposed structural changes to local government across the county.

This includes planned reforms to district and borough councils here in South West Hertfordshire – including Watford, St Albans, Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Dacorum. 

A seven-week statutory consultation was launched by the government last month, seeking views on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) within Hertfordshire. 

In July 2025, the government introduced the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill – that would see power transferred from Whitehall to local areas throughout England. 

The Bill aims to empower communities and help drive economic growth, by creating a new framework of “strategic authorities”. 

Under the government’s proposed legislative changes, 11 councils in Hertfordshire will be replaced by new unitary councils – which would ultimately become responsible for delivering all local services, and come into effect from 2028. 

Hertfordshire currently operates under a 2-tier system of local government, with the county council providing services such as social care, highways, and education. 

Whilst the 10 district and borough councils are responsible for delivering planning, leisure, housing, and waste collection services. 

Last November, Hertfordshire's councils along with the Police and Crime Commissioner, submitted joint proposals for two, three and four unitary council models for the government to consider. 

The government is now inviting people who live and work in Hertfordshire to take part in a seven-week consultation – which closes on Thursday 26 March 2026. 

A final decision on the restructuring of local government in Hertfordshire is expected later this summer. 

Details of the new unitary council proposals, including business cases, financial analysis, maps showing the proposed boundaries, as well as a link to the government’s consultation can be found at: www.hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk

Paper copies of the consultation are also available in council reception areas and Hertfordshire libraries.