Title

DEVOLUTION

Seeing the big picture

Will delays to some of this year’s local elections help councils focus on forming new unitaries and ultimately smooth the path to devolution? Ann McGauran speaks to Matthew Fright.

By Ann McGauran | 03 February 2026

The Government has claimed its decision to postpone 30 local elections for a year will create more capacity for council reorganisation.

But the move provoked fury and frustration among some council commentators.

SUBSCRIBE TO CONTINUE READING

Get unlimited access to The MJ with a subscription, plus a weekly copy of The MJ magazine sent directly to you door and inbox.

Full website content includes additional, exclusive commentary and analysis on the issues affecting local government.

Already a subscriber?