The Government’s plans for devolution and local government reorganisation are set to be outlined this month.

According to statements made by ministers, the Government plans to link further devolution to councils, as stated in the Conservative Party manifesto, to local government reorganisation.

This could see Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council merge with other councils in the surrounding areas in Hampshire.

What is devolution?

Devolution is the transfer of power from central UK Government to local governments. The term can also be used to refer to the transfer of power from local government to town and parish councils and/or community groups.

What can we expect from the white paper being released this month?

It is likely that the white paper will include proposals for local government reorganisation.

They may propose that areas with district and county councils to combine them into one single ‘unitary’ council.

What would change with a unitary council?

With a unitary council local services would be centralised such as planning, waste, high streets and more.

There is also the potential for the introduction of a combined authority mayor.

What was the council's previous position?

In 2016, leading advisor PricewaterhouseCoopers were appointed to carry out a detailed study on behalf of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Hart, New Forest, Rushmoor, Test Valley and Winchester councils, to look at options for local government including unitary and combined authorities.

Following consideration by councillors on the Communities, Environment and Partnerships Committee in November 2016, a decision was taken to delay the future consideration of becoming a unitary authority to allow time for discussions between all authorities on their respective proposals and the potential to reach an agreed position.

What is the council’s current position?

Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: “The reorganisation of local government in Hampshire will have an impact on residents and businesses in our borough, how our communities are represented and how those elected are accountable for the delivery of local services.

"We want all the councils in Hampshire, including the county council, to work together for the good of residents.

“We don’t know enough yet about the detail of the government’s plans but it is important that we start to discuss what residents need, want and expect from their council in today’s world to prepare for the white paper on local government restructure, expected in the autumn.

“All the options need to be considered so that we have a real understanding on all of the possibilities and the implications for our residents.

"It is important that we don’t rush into quick assessments on something that will last for years and will have a significant impact on quality of life for everyone across Basingstoke and Deane.”