With decisions now announced in four of the six Devolution Priority Programme (DPP) areas, we are at an important turning point. For some local authorities there is welcome clarity. For others, the path ahead remains uncertain.
The secretary of state's statement makes clear that no precedent is being set. Whether you now have a defined direction or are still awaiting a decision, the focus should be on how to move forward with confidence.
For Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, the hard work now begins in earnest. Teams are coming together quickly, building on existing baselining and working through challenges. There will be differences of view, but the priority is delivery; vesting day will start to feel very real, very quickly.
Disaggregation will be a major focus. Safely separating key county services, delivered through a mix of models, will require pace, grip and strong accountability. Boundary changes will add further complexity, and managing this while maintaining continuity will be one of the defining challenges of this phase.
At the same time, reorganisation must still support wider government priorities, particularly housing delivery. Councils, with their deep understanding of place, will be critical to the mission to build 1.5 million homes this Parliament. Maintaining momentum on housing will be essential.
For those still awaiting a decision, uncertainty remains. The outcome may not be the one you expect, or one that is currently on the table. Living with uncertainty is challenging, but there are actions you can take now that will add value under any scenario. Data baselining, strong governance and an effective programme management office will be critical whichever option is chosen.
Just as importantly, leadership, culture and communication need attention now, not later. Taking time to define how you want to lead through change, and identifying what good looks like for your organisation, will pay dividends as the pace accelerates.
Local Partnerships is supporting authorities across the country on both local government reorganisation and housing delivery, as a trusted public sector delivery partner. We would welcome the opportunity to help you navigate the next stage of your journey. Find out more at localpartnerships.gov.uk/LGR
Sarah-Joy Lewis is Head of LGR & Transformation, Local Partnerships
