Help shape Hertfordshire’s future – have your say on changes to local government

Residents, community groups, businesses and wider stakeholders are invited to share their views on how services will be delivered in Hertfordshire in the years ahead. This is a once in a generation opportunity to help shape the future of local government.

In December 2024, the Government set out plans to simplify local government in England to make it easier for residents and businesses to access services and to save money.

In Hertfordshire, there are currently two types of council:

• District and borough councils, which provide services such as housing, planning, bin collections, car parks and leisure services.
• The county council, which is responsible for schools, libraries, roads, caring for children and supporting adults who need help with daily living.

Under the Government’s plan, these councils will be replaced by new unitary councils that will deliver all services currently provided by the two separate types of council.

All councils in Hertfordshire are working together to explore what this would look like. The aim is to create a system of local government that is easy to understand, delivers good value for money and responds to the needs of local areas.

Over the next few weeks, councils will hold a mix of in-person and online events across the county. A dedicated website will also give further information on the changes, how you can get involved and share your views: https://www.hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk/. This will remain open until 30 September. After this date councils will review all the feedback before submitting the final proposal to Government at the end of November.

Councillor Max Holloway, Leader of WHBC, said:

“The reorganisation of Hertfordshire’s 11 councils is one of the biggest changes to local government for many years. So it’s really important that everyone living and working in Welwyn Hatfield has the chance to have their say on these proposals. I’d encourage everyone to visit the engagement website to find out more about the proposals for the new systems of local government and share your views by completing the online survey, or by attending one of our drop-in sessions.”

Councillor Jane Quinton, Deputy Leader of WHBC said:

“We have been working collaboratively with all councils and partners across the county to ensure the proposals that are being considered will benefit our local residents and businesses. We want to hear from as many people as possible about the proposals so please take part in this stage of the engagement process so that you can help shape the future of local government in Welwyn Hatfield and in the county.”

Two drop-in sessions are being held in Welwyn Hatfield:

• Friday 12 September, 3pm to 7pm, Hatfield Library, White Lion Square, 26-32 Town Centre, Hatfield AL10 OLD
• Thursday 18 September, 3pm to 7pm, Unit 23a (next to Pandora), The Howard Centre, Howardsgate, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6HA