Following the publication of the Devolution White Paper this month that set out the most radical changes to local government in a generation, ten Hertfordshire council leaders have put out a statement making clear they "do not support the creation of one unitary council for Hertfordshire".

Setting out their reasons for opposing the change they explained that "our county is diverse and made up of over 1.2 million residents across urban, suburban, and rural areas. Any reform of local government in Hertfordshire should follow a period of proper consultation with residents, businesses, elected representatives and stakeholders".

However, the elected officials have preempted any proper consolation by putting out their view that "a single unitary council for the county risks diminishing local representation, with decision-making that is remote from the communities we serve".

"We do not support postponing the county council elections scheduled for May 2025. The government has indicated that this will only happen in priority areas who have clear and agreed plans. This is not the case in Hertfordshire, so we cannot be in the first phase of these reforms.

"We recognise that the government's white paper sets a clear direction of travel. As Hertfordshire's district and borough council leaders, we want to work collaboratively with others to agree how we respond to this. Any changes must be carefully considered, transparent, and inclusive, ensuring that residents and businesses are fully engaged in shaping the future governance of Hertfordshire.

 "Our objective must be to get this right for our residents and businesses. That cannot be achieved if we make rushed decisions that have not been given the serious consideration that they deserve."

Statement agreed by the following leaders:

Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford (Watford Borough Council)

Councillor Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council

Councillor Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council

Councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst, Leader of Three Rivers District Council

Councillor Paul de Kort, Leader of St Albans City and District Council

Councillor Max Holloway, Leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council

Councillor Daniel Allen, Leader of North Hertfordshire District Council

Councillor Adrian England, Leader of Dacorum Borough Council

Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop, Leader of Broxbourne Borough Council

Councillor Ben Crystal, Leader of East Herts District Council