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To quote Bob Dylan, ‘the times they are a-changin'. We have another new Prime Minister, local government reorganisation outcomes are known, and the Rewiring the State document raises the ambition and pace of devolution.Its commitment to align public service geographies on common footprints addresses my previous calls in this column.Within 20 months we will create new councils, disaggregating county functions in most areas, establishing standalone fire authorities and identifying preferred strategic authorities by the end of 2027 to be vested in 2028.Our future councils need to be built on community power, enabled by integrated data, digital innovation and flexible workforces, supported by AI and passionate about improving places and lives.In Warwickshire, we are making good progress, underpinned by a collaborative, can-do approach across the six councils. At a recent event for 100 senior managers, the mood was one of excitement and recognition of the daunting task ahead.The outcome is, generally, smaller councils than many expected based on government criteria. That creates real opportunities to lean in to place, be close to communities and develop radical, preventative models of public service tailored to local need.Warwickshire has laid strong foundations through its ‘Community Powered Warwickshire' approach.I recently attended the opening of a fantastic new community café in Bar Pool. Funded by the county council's Social Fabric Fund, developed and led by the community, this new social asset offers residents new opportunities and support in Warwickshire's most deprived areas.Our future councils need to be built on community power, enabled by integrated data, digital innovation and flexible workforces, supported by AI and passionate about improving places and lives.However, financial realism is needed. New councils won't save money simply by being smaller – disaggregation will increase some costs, reducing or limiting other savings opportunities.Section 151 officers will need to ensure the new councils effectively balance place, proximity and fostering innovation while ensuring responsible long-term financial resilience and sustainability.Rob Powell is executive director for resources at Warwickshire CC

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FINANCE

Building smaller, smarter councils through community power

By Rob Powell | 07 September 2026

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