Government announce new unitary councils for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
The Government has announced its decision on local government reorganisation for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Three proposals to reorganise the existing 10 councils were put forward and considered by Government.
Government has confirmed that from April 2028 there will be two unitary councils to deliver all services to residents in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Those councils will be:
• A unitary council covering Leicester, Oadby and Wigston and parts of Blaby, Charnwood, and Harborough
• A unitary council for the remaining area of Leicestershire and Rutland
This means that the whole of Melton borough will be in the council covering the remaining area of Leicestershire and Rutland.
This map showing Leicester City boundary lines may help you understand the new areas.
All council services are continuing as usual and further updates will follow.
There is no need for residents to do anything at this time.
Any significant changes will only come into effect in 2028.
Responding to today's announcement, Leader of Melton Borough Council, Cllr Ronan Browne stated:
"Today's decision represents an important milestone for local government in Leicestershire, and for the residents, businesses and communities we serve in Melton. As the new Leadership of Melton Borough Council, we recognise the huge amount of effort that has gone into developing the various proposals submitted, and therefore the significance of the Government’s decision today. This represents the biggest change in local government for a generation and we now have clarity about the future structure of councils across our area.
"Right now our main focus is on ensuring residents continue to receive high quality services. Melton Borough Council will remain responsible for delivering local services and providing local leadership for the next 21 months, up to the creation of the new unitary councils in April 2028. During this time we will also work with our neighbouring councils and partners to ensure a smooth and well managed transition to the new unitary councils. This means ensuring we keep services close and connected to our communities, that we support our most vulnerable residents, and also that our staff are properly supported throughout this significant change. We will keep everyone informed and updated as things progress."
A website – www.futureLLRcouncils.gov.uk - has been developed to help keep residents informed about local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. It has been established by all 10 councils and further information will be added to it in the coming weeks and months.
The government has published more information about this announcement on their website. You can also read the statement made in parliament on 16 July 2026.
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