Email dated 25 March 2026 from the Chief Executive of Norfolk CC, Tom McCabe:
The Government has confirmed plans for reorganisation and is minded to a three unitary council model for Norfolk. Subject to the required statutory and parliamentary steps, this would mean that from April 2028 three new unitary councils would replace the existing eight councils.
What this means for Norfolk
The new structure will include:
- West Norfolk Council (current local government areas of Breckland, King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, and 9 parishes from South Norfolk).
- Greater Norwich Council (current local government areas of Norwich, 19 parishes from Broadland, and 16 parishes from South Norfolk).
- East Norfolk Council (current local government areas of Broadland (less 19 parishes), Great Yarmouth, North Norfolk, and South Norfolk (less 25 parishes)).
While this is not the structure Norfolk County Council had proposed, we will work to collaboratively to ensure that the Government’s plan for reorganisation delivers councils that are effective, stable and sustainable, and able to work well with partners to deliver high-quality services.
Where to find information on the announcement
You can read the written statement from the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government on the future of local government in Norfolk.
Working collaboratively with partners
We recognise the vital role Town and Parish Councils in supporting local communities. As transition planning develops, we remain committed to ensuring that we work with partners to shape arrangements that are built around communities, shaped by place, and designed to reflect how people live and thrive.
What happens next
Parliament must now approve the legal change that creates the new council.
Our focus is on planning a well-governed transition that keeps services stable and running safely, while we work together to build a new unitary council structure that is stronger, simpler and better able to deliver for Norfolk. We will work collaboratively with the other Norfolk councils, partners and Government to shape the future model and maintain strong partnership working throughout.
Throughout this period, all councils will continue to deliver business-as-usual services and meet statutory responsibilities, with no immediate changes to service delivery.
We will provide further updates as key stages progress, and we will ensure there are opportunities for partners to stay informed and feed into emerging arrangements as they develop.
With regards,
Tom McCabe, Chief Executive
Executive Assistant: naomi.alden@norfolk.gov.uk
County Hall, Martineau Lane, Norwich. NR1 2DH
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