Arguments for Combining Councils (Creating Larger Unitary Authorities)

1. Cost Savings and Efficiency Gains:
   • Merging councils can reduce duplication of services and administrative overhead. The government estimates savings of up to £2 Billion.
   • A County Councils Network (CCN) report found that creating unitary councils with populations of at least 500,000 could save £1.8–£2.9 Billion over five years.
2. Simplified Governance: A single-tier system (unitary authority) simplifies accountability and decision-making, making it clearer for residents who is responsible for services.
3. Improved Strategic Planning: Larger councils can better coordinate services like transport, housing, and public health across wider areas, aligning with the government's devolution agenda3.
4. Potential for Better Technology Integration: Consolidation allows for unified digital platforms and systems, which can improve service delivery and reduce IT costs over time.

However mitigation must be taken on Arguments Against Combining Councils such as Loss of Local Representation, responsiveness and Identity