16/07/2026
Dear Kimpton & Codicote Residence, 
Following this weeks announcement on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), I wanted to update you on what this means and to be clear about my own position.
Based on the conversations I have had with many residents across the district, I know there has been significant concern about the proposals. I want to make it clear that I did not support, or vote in favour of, the four-unitary proposal. Throughout this process, I believed that two unitary authority for Hertfordshire would have provided the greatest opportunity to reduce duplication, deliver efficiencies and simplify local government for residents and this is what I voted for.
The recommendation submitted by North Herts Council was supported by the Council’s Cabinet following the results of a consultation involving around 800 residents. The Government has also referred to wider public engagement across Hertfordshire when reaching its decision. However, unlike the North Herts consultation, councillors have not had the opportunity to scrutinise the detailed results of the Hertfordshire-wide engagement that informed the Secretary of State’s final decision.
The Government has now confirmed that, from 1 April 2028, Hertfordshire’s current two-tier system of one county council and ten district and borough councils will be replaced by four new unitary authorities. North Herts will become part of the new Central Hertfordshire Council.
Although this was not the outcome I hoped for, the decision has now been made. My focus will be on ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible and that the interests of North Hertfordshire residents are protected throughout the process. I will continue to work hard to ensure local communities have a strong voice as the new authority is established.
What happens next?
For residents, nothing changes immediately. North Herts Council will continue to provide all existing services as normal.
Elections for the new Central Hertfordshire Council are expected to take place in May 2027. Following those elections, a shadow authority will be established to prepare for the transfer of services and responsibilities, while North Herts Council continues to operate until Vesting Day on 1 April 2028.
On that date, North Hertfordshire District Council, along with the other existing county, district and borough councils, will be abolished. The new Central Hertfordshire Council will assume responsibility for all local government services previously delivered by both Hertfordshire County Council and North Herts Council.
I appreciate that many residents will have questions about what this means in practice. As more information becomes available, I will continue to keep you informed and represent the interests of our local communities throughout this transition.
Steve Patmore
North Hertfordshire District Councillor
Changes to Hertfordshire councils confirmed ✅
The government has announced its decision on the future of Hertfordshire’s councils as part of its Local Government Reorganisation programme.
From April 2028, the existing 11 county, district and borough councils across Hertfordshire will be replaced by four unitary authorities.
Nothing is changing for now; the services we deliver will continue as normal. Behind the scenes, we will be working closely with the other Hertfordshire councils to lay the groundwork for the new authorities. We will share further updates over the coming weeks and months as more details are confirmed.
Find out more about the government’s preferred option and the timeline for the reorganisation programme by visiting https://orlo.uk/V7bRL
