The Government has confirmed the future structure of local government in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
The decision will see two new unitary councils created across the area. A new northern council will serve Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Moorlands, while a new southern council will serve Stafford, East Staffordshire, Cannock Chase, Lichfield District, Tamworth and South Staffordshire.
The decision follows the submission of proposals by councils across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent earlier this year, followed by a public consultation.
Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said:
“We have always been clear that this was not a change we sought, and throughout this process we put forward the proposal we believed would best serve our residents and communities.
“While today’s decision is not the outcome we preferred, the Government has now made its decision.
“Our priority is to work positively and constructively with our neighbouring councils and Government to ensure the transition is well managed, protect the services residents rely on and make sure the interests of Lichfield District continue to be strongly represented.
“Residents should be reassured that there will be no immediate changes to the services they receive. We remain committed to delivering high-quality services throughout the transition and will continue to keep our communities informed as further information becomes available.”
The Government has confirmed that the new council arrangements are expected to come into effect in April 2028, following elections to shadow authorities in May 2027.
There will be no immediate changes to council services, and residents should continue to access services in the usual way while detailed transition planning takes place.
Lichfield District Council will continue to work with neighbouring councils and Government to support the implementation of the new arrangements and will provide updates as further information becomes available.