Residents and organisations in Hitchin and across Hertfordshire are being encouraged to share their views as the Government launches a consultation on major changes to how local councils operate in the county.

Central Government has begun a seven-week statutory consultation on proposals to reorganise local government structures, with the aim of simplifying services and reducing costs.

Currently, services in Hertfordshire are delivered through a two-tier system. District and borough councils — including North Hertfordshire District Council, which serves Hitchin — provide services such as housing support, planning, waste and recycling collections, street cleaning, leisure facilities and council tax collection.

Meanwhile, Hertfordshire County Council delivers countywide services including children's social care, education, highways, libraries, recycling centres, public health and trading standards.

Under the Government's proposals, these existing councils would be replaced by new unitary authorities, each responsible for delivering all local services in their areas.

Following engagement events and an online survey involving residents and stakeholders, Hertfordshire's 11 councils, together with the Police and Crime Commissioner, submitted proposals outlining three possible future models featuring two, three or four unitary councils across the county.

Detailed information, including financial analysis, proposed boundary maps and business cases, can be viewed online at www.hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk, alongside links to the Government's consultation.

Paper copies of the consultation will also be available in council offices and Hertfordshire libraries, including those serving Hitchin residents.

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Leaders of the county's 11 councils said in a joint statement: "We are committed to working together to deliver services that are as simple to access, accountable, and sustainable as possible for our 1.2 million residents.

"We have worked together throughout this process, listening to local communities and developing evidence-based proposals that reflect what matters most to people across our county.

"This statutory consultation is your opportunity to tell Central Government what you think. We encourage everyone to get involved and make your voice heard."

The consultation runs until 26 March 2026, with a final Government decision expected in summer 2026.

Residents in Hitchin are being encouraged to take part to help shape how local services will be delivered in the future.