Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

What is devolution?

Devolution means transferring some powers and funding from the national government to local leaders. For Norfolk, this allows decisions about investment and services to be made by people who understand local needs best.

Why does it matter?

It gives Norfolk more control over things like transport, housing, and economic growth.

What’s happening now?

The Government launched a public consultation on devolution in February 2025. Norwich City Council has shared its draft response as outlined in the scrutiny committee report of 20 March 2025.

What is LGR?

LGR is about how councils are structured. The Government wants a simpler system with fewer councils, so it’s clear who is responsible for services.

• Current system:
  Norfolk has eight councils (one county council and seven district councils).
• Proposed change:
  Abolish all eight councils and create new unitary councils that provide all local services in their area.

Government's consultation

You can give your views on the LGR proposals for Norfolk, up to Sunday 11 January 2026.

What’s Norwich City Council’s position?

We support creating a Greater Norwich Unitary Authority as part of a plan for three unitary councils in Norfolk:

• Greater Norwich
• East Norfolk
• West Norfolk

This proposal was developed with other councils under the Future Norfolk partnership and informed by public feedback. 

Key dates

• March 2025: Interim plan submitted to Government.
• September 2025: Full business case submitted.
• November 2025: Government consultation on proposals.
• Spring 2026: Decision expected.
• April 2028: New unitary councils in operation.

Want to get involved?

• Share your priorities and feedback during consultations
• Read the full proposals and updates on Future Norfolk