Future Dorset proposals: CCN response

Responding to today’s announcement from Sajid Javid on unitary proposals in Dorset, CCN Director Simon Edwards said:

“CCN welcomes the decision of the Secretary of State to proceed with proposals for unitary local government in Dorset.

 “We will now actively support Dorset through the transition to unitary status, drawing on the experience of our 10 existing unitary member councils. We also look forward to engaging both new councils, given they share the common characteristics that make up the CCN.

 “For those wishing to pursue reform, this signals a new direction in Government policy. There will now be an expectation that evidence-based decisions on other proposals will be reached, such as those put forward by Buckinghamshire County Council.

 “Our independent research has shown there to be significant financial, economic and public service reform benefits for those willing to pursue reform at scale. This bid was unique, having two neighbouring unitary authorities wishing to reorganise, alongside the two-tier system in the county”.