UK approves Nottinghamshire split into two unitary councils

The UK government has announced that the nine existing local authorities in Nottinghamshire will be abolished and replaced by two new unitary councils. One authority will cover Nottingham city and parts of Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe, while the other will cover Ashfield, Bassetlaw, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, plus parts of Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe. A formal written decision is pending, with elections scheduled for May 2027, shadow authorities to be created thereafter, and the new councils to be formally established in April 2028.

The decision follows the Local Government Reorganisation programme aimed at simplifying local government and delivering cost savings. It has drawn criticism from local Labour MPs in Gedling, Broxtowe and Bassetlaw, who describe the split as “bad policymaking” and a “rushed Labour model.” Reform UK’s leader of Nottinghamshire County Council warned of a possible judicial review, calling the decision “bittersweet disappointment.” The housing and local government secretary defended the city‑focused plan as the most financially stable option that will support economic growth across the county.