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Somerset CC has joined the list of county councils in the White Paper race for unitary status. In all, eight local authorities, including Norwich and Exeter city councils, have already said they would make a bid and a further five are considering whether to go for single unitary status. Somerset CC met yesterday (Wednesday) after The MJ went to press to discuss whether to formally go for unitary status. Speaking before the meeting, Somerset CC leader, Cathy Bakewell, said: ‘I believe the county council needs to take a bold step in bidding for unitary status to ensure we have a cost-effective and streamlined system of local government.' Shropshire CC voted last week to make a bid to the Department for Communities and Local Government. ‘I think we stand today on the brink of a new era of local government in Shropshire,' said Shropshire leader, Malcolm Pate. ‘Our submission promises low council tax, improved and locally-delivered services, and protection from regionalisation.' Members at Cumbria CC voted last week to draw up a feasibility study on unitary status. This is an important step for the council,' said Cumbria CC leader, Tim Stoddard. Officers at Northumberland CC have been asked to start work on a submission for unitary status, but a final decision on whether to submit it will be taken in the new year. Corby BC has rejected the idea of a unitary council for north Northamptonshire last week, and voted in favour an improved two-tier system for the whole county. Councils have until 25 January 2007 to submit bids to the Department for Communities and Local Government for unitary status, as part of the local government White Paper.

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WHITEHALL

Somerset is latest to join clamour for unitary status

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