Help shape Hertfordshire’s future - have your say on changes to local government

Have your say on the future services in Herts

Register for consultation event (15 & 17 Sept)

Residents, community groups, businesses and wider stakeholders are invited to share their views on how services will be delivered in Hertfordshire in the years ahead. This is a once in a generation opportunity to help shape the future of local government.  

In December 2024, the Government set out plans to simplify local government in England to make it easier for residents and businesses to access services and to save money. 

In Hertfordshire, there are currently two types of council: 

• District and borough councils, which provide services such as housing, planning, bin collections, car parks and leisure services.  

• The county council, which is responsible for schools, libraries, roads, caring for children and supporting adults who need help with daily living.  

Under the Government’s plan, these councils will be replaced by new unitary councils that will deliver all services currently provided by the two separate types of council.  

All councils in Hertfordshire are working together to explore what this would look like. The aim is to create a system of local government that is easy to understand, delivers good value for money and responds to the needs of local areas.  

How to get involved

Over the next month, councils will hold a mix of in-person and online events across the county. A dedicated website will also give further information on the changes, how you can get involved and share your views: hertfordshire-lgr.co.uk. This will remain open until 30 September 2025.

After this date councils will review all the feedback before submitting the final proposal to Government at the end of November.  

To take part in public meetings at the Watford Town Hall Annexe with Hertfordshire County Council , sign up at ticketsource.co.uk/watford-borough-council. You can learn more, ask questions, and share your views:

• 15 September – 2.30pm to 4.30pm
• 17 September – 6.30pm to 8.00pm

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “It is important that we talk with residents and key partners as we look at the future of local government in our town. Local insight will help us understand what currently works and where there are opportunities to do better. At the same time, hearing directly from residents ensures we stay focused on the things that matter most to our community.

 

“Watford is a town with a strong identity and excellent public services. Being named the 2025 iESE Council of the Year shows that we work hard for our residents. Any future structure must preserve what makes Watford unique, helping us continue to deliver for our residents.”