With the seasonal break approaching, many councils will be hoping for a period of rest and recuperation, but in reality, they know there’s no time to waste, say Claire Ward, partner, and Sue Bearman, legal director at Anthony Collins. So, what can they do to prepare?
Most LGR proposals were submitted to the Secretary of State at the end of November, and there is now a period for central Government to review the proposals, before final decisions are made on the form of new councils.
For those councils affected, preparing for the transition to new unitary authorities is essential. The new unitary councils will be responsible for project managing the transition to finish, but it will be the joint committees that start this process and governance arrangements will be a core part of this.
How people work together, make decisions, and interact now whilst awaiting the Secretary of State decision can impact the transition process and influence the direction of travel for the new unitary council.
Above all else, at this stage it’s important for councils to keep talking with one another. In most situations, there are multiple proposals for how reorganisation will be shaped, so maintaining effective relationships at all levels, is vital.
Councils should seize this rare chance to shape innovative working practices that will set a positive tone for the new unitary council and help secure a successful outcome. These discussions at a high level can take place before the formal arrangements are set up and will provide a framework for the joint committee to consider.
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