Final plans of councils for revamp submitted

SHAPE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOR DECADES TO COME TO BE DECIDED

- By STAFF REPORTER

RIVAL visions for the future of local government in the city and counties have been submitted to the government.

The deadline for final proposals to replace two-tier council structures with one was yesterday.

The government will consider proposals and consult on its preferred options next year.

COUNTY COUNCIL

Leicestershire County Council said it had sent in its "blueprint for 21st century local government which unites Leicestershire and Rutland under a single council and aims to preserve local identity while delivering smarter, more responsive governance".

It said its plan will save about £40 million a year by cutting duplication and streamlining leadership and that transition costs would be paid back within a couple of years.

Council leader Dan Harrison said: "This is the right choice for our communities, our finances and our future.

"It's a historic moment for local government in our area and a chance to build a council that's leaner, more efficient and better equipped to meet future challenges.

"Our plan features local area and planning committees, along the lines of the North Yorkshire Council model, liked by government and recognised as a success.

"We've worked with scrutiny leads, businesses and stakeholders to shape our final proposals, backed by a strong, cross-party majority.

"As leader, I remain opposed to any expansion of Leicester's boundaries and have called for a government-funded referendum if such plans emerge.

"Redrawing the map would mean destroying Leicestershire's history and identity.