Latest update – 29 October 2026
The Government has announced that it has withdrawn its previous decision on local government reorganisation (LGR) in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
In July 2026, the Government announced plans to replace the existing councils across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent with two new unitary councils. This decision has now been withdrawn while the Government carries out a further review.
All proposals, including the alternative three-unitary model supported by Lichfield District Council, remain under consideration.
The Government expects to announce further decisions over the coming months, with an outcome for Staffordshire expected by early 2027.
What happens next?
The Government has confirmed the following timetable:
- May 2027: Local elections will go ahead for existing councils.
- Early 2027: The Government expects to have announced the outcome of its review for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
- May 2028: Elections to the new unitary councils are expected to take place.
- 1 April 2029: The new councils are expected to take over responsibility for local government services.
What does this mean for residents?
There are no immediate changes to council services.
Lichfield District Council will continue to provide services including waste and recycling collections, planning, housing, leisure, parks and customer services as normal.
Residents do not need to take any action.
We will continue to update this page as the Government confirms the next steps for local government in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
