Local Government Reorganisation

We bring clarity to complexity. Local government reorganisation is never simple, but with the right support it can be delivered smoothly and successfully.

Phase 0: Business Case

21 two-tier areas were invited to submit proposals for reorganising into unitary authorities in early 2025.

All areas submitted interim plans, with 7 having their reorganisation proposals fast-tracked. Councils in these areas are preparing final, detailed proposals for submission by November 28, 2025.

In this phase, we supported organisations in developing and agreeing on detailed proposals outlining the preferred reorganisation model. These proposals, described in Business Case form, demonstrate how the reorganisation will improve efficiency, service delivery and local accountability.

Objective setting and ambition
High-level service design
Financial modelling
Business case creation and development
Integration
Delivery plan

Phase 1: Mobilisation

In this phase, we can support your organisation with its post-LGR decision mobilisation. Key priorities to consider during mobilisation, where we can bring expertise and support, are:

Vision and ambition
Current activity review
Systems review
Assessment of MTFS opportunities
Financial strategy and modelling
Organisation design
Social care model of delivery
Strategic asset reviews

Recent projects

Phase 2: Design

In this phase, we focus on the design aspects needed to prepare for a successful transition as part of your LGR. Key priorities to consider during the design phases where we can help are:

Co-developing a blueprint for your operating model
Co-designing service area operating models
Change management
Asset strategy: approaches to management and rationalisation
Social care improvement and efficiency
Company reviews (of your locally owned trading companies (LATCs) or wholly owned operating companies (WOCs))
Data cleansing
Service and system integration plans

Recent projects

Phase 3: Delivery

In this phase, we will focus on the significant areas of transformation required to deliver the local government reorganisation you agreed upon at the design stage. Key priorities to consider during the design phases where we can help are:

Change management
Strategic implementation plan
Capability building and upskilling
Budget process harmonisation
Innovation (e.g. Place-Based Impact Investing)
Capital programme and governance reviews
Asset strategy: approaches to management and rationalisation
Social care staff and workforce

Recent projects

Phase 4: Stabilisation & Renewal

In the final phase, we will focus our support on ensuring the new authority not only operates safely, legally and effectively from day one, but also has the right foundations for long-term reform and improvement.

This phase is about embedding new ways of working, aligning systems and culture, and using the early months of operation to drive the next stage of transformation. The key priorities to consider during this phase to ensure successful ‘business-as-usual’ operations are:

Assets
Finance
People
Service Delivery Model
Strategy
Social Care

31ten provided structure, clarity and momentum; leading the development of the individual proposals, underpinned by shared datasets, aligned methodologies and a consistent framework for financial modelling and analysis. The process has been both challenging and immensely rewarding. 31ten created the space for open, challenging and constructive conversations. Their facilitation helped us build a clearer shared vision and strengthened our collective understanding of what our communities, residents and businesses need from local government in the years ahead.

Chris Sinnott, Chief Executive – Chorley Council and South Ribble Borough Council

Our partners

We work collaboratively with a range of trusted partner organisations to deliver the highest quality support to our clients. This includes specialist economic, community engagement and financial advisors.

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If you’d like to discuss how 31ten can collaboratively support your organisation across any of the next phases of Local Government Reorganisation, then we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch

Contact

Rahul Rana

Director

07968 369620
rahul.rana@31tenconsulting.co.uk

View our team