Structural review of Norfolk & Suffolk

Summary

front cover of the Boundary Committee review of unitary government in Norfolk - July 2008.

On 3 March 2008, the Boundary Committee started structural reviews of Norfolk, Suffolk and Devon. They are doing the reviews in these areas in order to provide advice to the Secretary of State in relation to the proposals made by Exeter City Council, Ipswich Borough Council and Norwich City Council to become Unitary authorities.

On 7 July 2008 the Boundary Committee revealed that the option it wants to take forward is for one single unitary authority for Norfolk that also takes in Lowestoft, which is currently in Suffolk. The full proposal document is published on the Boundary Committee website [external link], and you can see our initial response in the Press release we sent out on 7 July 2008.

Further information

Review timetable

Stage & start date Duration Details

Stage One:
3 March – 11 April 2008

6 weeks

Relevant background information on each county area provided by local authorities. Concepts for new unitary authorities relating broadly to the criteria submitted to the Boundary Committee

Stage Two:
14 April – 4 July 2008

12 weeks

The Boundary Committee will consider the concepts and seek information as necessary from local authorities and other stakeholders. It will consider this information and make a decision on what to publish in draft proposals

Draft proposals published

Stage Three:
7 July – 26 September 2008

12 weeks

Public consultation on draft proposals, including on the specific boundaries of any new unitary authorities. Financial information will be collected to assess the affordability of the draft proposals.

Stage Four:
29 Sept –
19 December 2008

12 weeks

Consultation responses and financial information considered.

Final decision by Committee on what to advice to provide to the Secretary of State


When will any new unitary authorities be created?

The Boundary Committee has been requested to provide advice by 31 December 2008. The Government are responsible for making orders implementing any proposals it chooses to, and these orders would specify when any new unitary authorities will come into force.

External links

Boundary Committee: Structural review homepage
Introduction to the structural reviews of Norfolk, Suffolk and Devon counties, plus leaflets and posters about the Norfolk & Suffolk review to download.

Boundary Committee: The request for advice from the Secretary of State
This document explains the consultation process that will take place during 2008 before the Boundary Committee has to make its recommendations to the Secretary of State in December 2008.



About links to other websites.

Contact us

contact officer/team: John Fuller, South Norfolk Council Leader
web: online enquiry form
email: LGR@s-norfolk.gov.uk
telephone: 01508 558280
minicom/textphone: 01508 533622
address: South Norfolk Council
South Norfolk House
Swan Lane
Long Stratton
Norwich NR15 2XE

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Last updated on: 11 August 2008