Government withdraws Suffolk Local Government Reorganisation decision

The Government has announced a review of its plans for local government reorganisation (LGR), withdrawing its previous decision which would have seen Suffolk’s six current councils replaced by three new councils. Decisions affecting Norfolk, Essex and Hampshire have also been withdrawn.

The review was announced by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government on 7 September 2026 and follows updated legal advice and changes in ministerial responsibilities. The Government says it wants to ensure the reorganisation process is robust, compliant with the law, and aligned with the new national administration’s plans for devolution and public sector reform.

The Government has also paused proposals in 14 other areas. All are now subject to review.

The Government has confirmed that district and borough council elections in Suffolk will take place in May 2027 – using existing council boundaries. The planned shadow unitary council elections will not go ahead.

Read the full Government announcement on the GOV.UK website.