Hertfordshire's 11 councils have launched the next phase of engagement on the future of local government in the county – and residents in Hitchin will have the chance to share their views later this month.

The Government announced plans in December 2024 to simplify local government in England by replacing the current two-tier system with new unitary councils. At present, Hertfordshire has:

• District and borough councils (such as North Herts), which run services like housing, planning, bin collections, car parks and leisure.
• Hertfordshire County Council, which looks after schools, libraries, roads, children's services and adult social care.

The new proposals would bring these responsibilities under single councils, designed to make services easier to access and to provide better value for money.

Across September, councils are inviting residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders to share their views. In North Herts, the discussions will be part of the council's Community Forums, where people can hear a presentation on Local Government Reorganisation alongside other local topics.

📅 Local Community Forum dates:

• Great Ashby Community Centre – Thursday 11 September, 7.30pm
• Baldock Community Centre – Monday 15 September, 7.30pm
• Hitchin Town Hall – Tuesday 16 September, 7pm
• Letchworth Library – Wednesday 24 September, 7.30pm
• Royston Town Hall – Wednesday 24 September, 7.30pm

Places are limited, so early booking is encouraged.

A dedicated website – www.hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk – has been set up to provide more information and gather feedback until 30 September. Councils will then review all responses before submitting their final proposal to Government in November.

Cllr Daniel Allen, Leader of North Herts Council, said:

"We're really looking forward to sharing our emerging options for Local Government Reorganisation in Hertfordshire with the people whose opinions matter the most.

Our priority in North Herts remains ensuring that any future reorganisation genuinely benefits our communities, so your thoughts will be invaluable in helping us shape the future of Hertfordshire.

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved across the month of September and I'd encourage everyone to have their say."

Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, said:

"The services we provide, including roads, libraries and services for children and vulnerable adults alongside the services delivered by district and borough councils, touch the lives of all 1.2 million people in our county which is why it is so important that residents have a say on the future of local government here in Hertfordshire. 

"The changes that the government has asked us to propose will alter the way in which some of these services are delivered but it is vital that we continue to provide them, meeting people's needs in the most effective way.

"I hope that people will attend one of the events taking place across the county throughout September to learn more, visit the dedicated website and share their views through the survey. We want to hear the views of as many Hertfordshire residents, businesses and partners as possible, to ensure this once in a generation opportunity is shaped by the people who value and rely on council services every day."