County Council confirms date of devolution meeting

Saturday, 1 March 2025 10:16

Rutland County Council has confirmed the date of its second special meeting to discuss devolution and local government reorganisation. It will be on Tuesday the 11th of March.

Rutland's working with the seven districts of Leicestershire to prepare an interim plan by the 21st of this month. They propose dividing Leicestershire into two unitary authorities, where Rutland would join with Melton and Charnwood. Leicestershire County Council prefers one for the whole county. Both proposals have Leicester City area on its own. Rutland County Council's asking residents for comment on their website under a special devolution page. The Save Rutland campaign to protect the county's unitary status is now available in garden centres, shops, as well as many pubs. MP Alicia Kearns met with Rutland County Council and Leicestershire districts yesterday and is looking closely at the proposals.

"Just had a long call with district leaders and Rutland County Council leader about all things local government reform. As you know, I still think it's really important we take a strong firm stand about the fact this is being done to us. And that doesn't mean we just have to get on board the process. We have to stand up for what is right for us. So I'm really grateful to them for the work they've done. I'm now going to look at all the data sitting behind the proposals they pulled together and see if I can make an assessment of whether it's the right thing for us."