This will mean that elections for the new unitary authority or authorities will take place in 2028 with vesting day taking place in 2029. Meanwhile, the Government will look at the initial proposals submitted by councils and reappraise which option is the best fit for Derbyshire.
We recognise the continued uncertainty colleagues are experiencing as a result of the changes to, and pause in, the programme.
The additional time will enable the council to engage with the Government on our preferred option for Uniting Derbyshire served by a single local authority.
This remains the county council's preferred solution and, in our view, the best outcome for Derbyshire. It offers the strongest opportunity to protect and improve services, deliver lasting benefits through reorganisation, and minimise disruption by keeping countywide services together.
We also recognise that a longer timetable extends the period of uncertainty for colleagues, including which new unitary council they may transfer to and where they will be based. We will continue to provide clear updates as the revised timetable develops and support staff throughout the process.
For now, colleagues should continue to focus on delivering services and progressing agreed priorities unless advised otherwise.
Kind regards,
Neil Crittenden