Press Release - Local Government Reorganisation

Colwick Parish Council is calling for changes to local government in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to be decided through a process that is transparent, inclusive, and fair. Right now, residents’ access to the consultation depends on where they live. The council says every community should be included in the conversation, and no one should be left out.

“Whether people want to be part of a new authority with the city, the county, or are still deciding, we’ve heard the same message: the process is flawed” said Cllr Abby Booker, Chair of Colwick Parish Council. “Devolution is meant to bring power closer to communities, but the way this is being handled risks pitting local authorities against each other, with central government making the final call on a model no one supports. It risks reinforcing the very problem it’s meant to solve.”

The online consultation presents different options depending on whether residents live in the city or the county. For county residents, only two options are shown. Whereas those who live or work in the city see a third option that would combine the city with surrounding urban areas into a new authority, and the rest of the county in another. To ensure people without access to the online survey are included, Broxtowe Borough Council has posted free return envelopes to residents, and Rushcliffe Borough Council has worked with parish councils and other community organisations to make paper copies available.

“We welcome the steps taken in places like Broxtowe and Rushcliffe to make the consultation easier to take part in. That's the kind of fair access we want to see expanded across Nottinghamshire, especially for those who will be most affected by these changes" Cllr Booker added.

Colwick Parish Council has submitted a formal response to the consultation calling for a process that treats communities fairly and gives residents a genuine voice in shaping the outcome.

“Local government reorganisation will shape our area for generations. We believe it’s possible to have a process that everyone can trust - one that gives every resident, in every place, a fair say in the future of their community.”

Residents can view the proposals at lgrnotts.org and submit their views before the consultation closes on Sunday 14th September 2025.

If you have any queries regarding this press release, please contact:

Frank Horsley

Parish Clerk

Email: [email protected]