The King's Lynn and West Norfolk Council met to discuss and endorse the final proposal for local government reorganisation (LGR) in Norfolk, recommending a three-unitary model. Councillors approved the proposal, which will now be submitted to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government for consideration. The council also delegated authority to the Chief Executive, Kate Blakemore, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Councillor Alistair Beales, to make any necessary non-material amendments to the final proposal before submission.

Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk

The main item on the agenda was the final proposal for LGR in Norfolk. Councillor Alistair Beales, Leader of the Council, introduced the item, expressing gratitude to everyone involved in developing the proposal. He outlined the anticipated social, economic, and financial benefits of the three-unitary model. He also highlighted the opportunities presented by advancing technology and the Prevent Agenda.

The proposal recommends the creation of three new unitary authorities: Greater Norwich, East Norfolk, and West Norfolk. The aim is to deliver more responsive public services, strengthen democratic leadership, and unlock long-term economic and social benefits for communities. The proposal meets the government's reorganisation criteria, offering strong alignment across key areas such as improved local services, strong leadership and accountability, economic growth, financial sustainability, local identity, and optimal size and scale.

Councillor Brian Long, Leader of the Conservative Group, stressed the importance of ensuring the proposal served the residents of West Norfolk. He noted that reorganisation had been imposed on Norfolk, necessitating a submission. He emphasised the significance of local delivery and accountability, particularly in rural areas.

Councillor Francis Bone, Leader of the Labour Group, commented that this proposal was the most democratic way forward and the Labour Group would be supporting it. He thanked all those involved and looked forward to the opportunities the new Unitary would bring.

Councillor Julian Kirk, Leader of Reform UK, confirmed support from the Reform UK Group, stating the proposal was the best option for West Norfolk. He extended thanks to all involved.

Councillor Alexandra Kemp, Leader of the Progressive Group, supported the West Norfolk proposal, commenting that Norfolk was too large to be served by a single Unitary authority. She referenced Norfolk County Council's debt and staffing challenges and called for Government funding to support the reorganisation.

Councillor Pallavi Devulapalli supported the principle of reorganisation, stating that councils should be less complex in order to serve residents. She felt that the three-unitary model was the best way forward and thanked all those involved. She commented that it was a shame that Norfolk County Council had not engaged in the process along with the six districts.

Councillor Jim Moriarty, Cabinet Member for Planning and Licensing, welcomed the comprehensive briefing sessions and opportunities for Member questions in the lead up to the submission. He supported the proposal and voiced concern over the content of the Norfolk County Council proposal.

Councillor Michael de Whalley, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, stated that the three-unitary model met government criteria, addressed local needs, and was robust. He commended the high level of engagement and consultation throughout the process.

Councillor Stuart Dark, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group, emphasised the importance of progressing with a submission in line with Government timescales. He supported the proposal and clarified that his role at County did not present a conflict of interest.

Councillor Charles Joyce commented that service delivery was important and this proposal was the best for local service delivery. He indicated that he would propose a recorded vote on this item.

Councillor Joshua Osborne spoke in support of the proposal, commended the level of engagement and consultation and was confident that the three-unitary proposal would work as set out in the submission.

Councillor David Sayers thanked all those involved in the submission and commented that he would be supporting the proposal as it was good for local decision making and residents. He hoped that Government would consider the three-unitary model as the optimum size to serve residents.

Councillor Josie Ratcliffe spoke in support of the proposal and noted that the Borough Council was in a good position, currently undergoing a period of transformation and in a financially sustainable position. She hoped that Local Government Reorganisation would not interrupt this. She thanked all those involved and commented that all the data and information available in the proposal would serve those new Councillors elected to the Unitary well.

Councillor Ben Jones, Member Champion - Youth, praised the cross-party collaboration and the work undertaken. He believed the proposal was sustainable and would enhance services for residents.

Councillor Deborah Heneghan, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group, welcomed Local Government Reorganisation and hoped it would bring more opportunities to the West and prioritisation would be given to ensuring good services for residents.

Councillor Jo Rust, Cabinet Member for People and Communities, thanked all those involved in the process and felt that the three-unitary option was the best for residents as it would provide the opportunity to improve and transform the services currently provided by Norfolk County Council. She commended the level of resident engagement and highlighted that residents need local services to remain.

Councillor Richard Coates congratulated the Leader and all those involved in bringing the proposals forward. He highlighted the importance of continuing to promote the benefits of the three-unitary model, even after the submission had been made.

Councillor Simon Ring, Deputy Leader of the Council, thanked all those involved, notably the Leader and Chief Executive and spoke in support of the proposal, describing it as sustainable and transformative. He criticised the County Council's submission for lacking consideration of local service needs and placing undue burden on Parish Councils. He also highlighted the importance of the Prevent Agenda.

In summing up, Councillor Alistair Beales reiterated thanks to the Chief Executive and affirmed the Borough's positive working relationship with Norfolk County Council, which he expected to continue. He confirmed his support for the three-unitary model.

Following the debate, Councillor Joyce proposed a recorded vote, which was supported. The council then voted to approve the recommendation from the Cabinet Meeting held on 16 September 2025 regarding the Final Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk.