JOINT STATEMENT: 10 councils in Hertfordshire release update on local government reform

Following the publication of the Devolution White Paper, and subsequent statements by the leader of Hertfordshire County Council, we would like to make it clear that we do not support the creation of one unitary council for Hertfordshire. 

Our county is diverse and made up of over 1.2 million residents across urban, suburban, and rural areas. Any reform of local government in Hertfordshire should follow a period of proper consultation with residents, businesses, elected representatives and stakeholders. Looking at the evidence, we should decide collectively what is best for our area. A single unitary council for the county risks diminishing local representation, with decision-making that is remote from the communities we serve.

We do not support postponing the county council elections scheduled for May 2025. The government has indicated that this will only happen in priority areas who have clear and agreed plans. This is not the case in Hertfordshire, so we cannot be in the first phase of these reforms. 

We recognise that the government’s white paper sets a clear direction of travel. As Hertfordshire’s district and borough council leaders, we want to work collaboratively with others to agree how we respond to this. Any changes must be carefully considered, transparent, and inclusive, ensuring that residents and businesses are fully engaged in shaping the future governance of Hertfordshire.

Our objective must be to get this right for our residents and businesses. That cannot be achieved if we make rushed decisions that have not been given the serious consideration that they deserve.

Statement agreed by the following leaders:

Councillor Max Holloway, Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council
Councillor Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council
Councillor Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council
Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst, Leader of Three Rivers District Council
Councillor Paul de Kort, Leader of St Albans City and District Council
Councillor Daniel Allen,  Leader of North Hertfordshire Council
Councillor Adrian England, Leader of Dacorum Borough Council
Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop, Leader of Broxbourne Borough Council
Councillor Ben Crystal, Leader of East Herts District Council 
Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford (Watford Borough Council)