Norwich's bid for unitary status

What is unitary status?

A unitary council is a single council responsible for the delivery of all local government services in a particular area. It is widely recognised as the easiest, clearest and most efficient model for local government, and this system operates in most urban and city areas across England. Unitary government also operates across the whole of Scotland and Wales.

What currently happens in Norwich and Norfolk?

Local government services in the built up area of Norwich are currently run by four different councils:

• Three district councils - Norwich City Council covering most of the built up area (129,700 people), Broadland District Council covering most of the north side of the city (approx 75,000 people), and South Norfolk Council covering some of the south of the city (approx 15,000 people).
• One county council - Norfolk County Council covering the whole of the city (and the rest of Norfolk too).

The three district councils provide services such as housing, refuse collection, street cleansing and litter collection, culture, parks and development control.

The county council provides such services as children's services, adult social care, libraries, strategic planning and transport and waste disposal.

Across the rest of Norfolk, the picture is equally confusing. There are a total of seven district councils, plus Norfolk County Council covering the whole county area. Although there is some joint and partnership working, in practice this means there are overlaps and duplication of services, resulting in public confusion about which council provides which services, and therefore which councillor to ask for help.

Why would unitary government be better for Norwich and for Norfolk?

• more integration of complementary services
• less duplication of services (eg there are 8 teams of finance, personnel and legal services across the county)
• greater consistency in service delivery and standards
• stronger purchasing power to achieve better costs
• closer partnership with police and health services.

• clearer and greater political accountability
• easier access to services for local people
• no confusion about which council is delivering which services
• all funds raised locally will be spent locally
• more targeting on local needs and aspirations.

• status as a viable city in its own right, as well as a regional hub
• attracting growth in jobs, wealth, culture and tourism
• tackling social inequality and poverty
• greater national and international influence and credibility.

• clearer political leadership – one leader for each area
• stronger neighbourhood empowerment and engagement
• more focussed partnership working.

What is happening now?

The government has recognised the shortcomings of the current two-tier system in Norfolk and Suffolk, and is keen to see the development of key medium sized cities to deliver significant economic growth for the future.

The government has therefore announced that it will commission the Boundary Committee to undertake a review of local government structures and boundaries across the whole of Norfolk and Suffolk. A review of local government in Devon is also planned.

The timeline, accessed from the link below, shows the process so far, and when we expect further developments to occur.

Timeline for unitary developments

Where can I get more information?

Please email onecity@norwich.gov.uk

Other useful links and information

Frequently Asked Questions

Norwich City Council committee reports

Norwich City Council unitary newsletters

Press releases about the Norwich City Council bid

Links to other websites

Timeline for unitary developments