November 2026 Update
Following the Government’s review of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), Ministers have confirmed that the programme continues to form part of their wider plans for devolution and public service reform. While decisions have been withdrawn or revised in some areas, several authorities are now progressing towards new unitary arrangements and further decisions are expected across the remaining areas in early 2027.
For councils, this creates a complex operating environment. Some authorities are moving forward with implementation planning, others are reassessing options, and many are seeking clarity on how future arrangements will affect services, partnerships, contracts, estates and community outcomes.
In this context, early preparation remains critical. Regardless of the eventual geography or timetable, authorities that understand their services, articulate their strategic contribution and establish a clear vision for active wellbeing will be better positioned to influence future organisational arrangements.
Navigating uncertainty whilst positioning services for the future
For senior leaders, Local Government Reorganisation, devolution and place transformation continues to present both risk and opportunity. While national decisions continue to evolve, councils must still address the immediate challenges of financial sustainability, service transformation, prevention, community wellbeing and place-based delivery.
SLC supports councils to navigate this changing landscape by helping them understand how sport, leisure, culture and active wellbeing can contribute to wider organisational priorities and future unitary arrangements.
We have already supported authorities including North Yorkshire Council, Horsham District Council, Castle Point District Council and Teignbridge District Council to assess opportunities, strengthen strategic positioning and prepare for organisational change.
Our experience suggests a consistent message:
Prepare early. Build evidence. Strengthen partnerships. Create a compelling vision for the future.
Whether LGR, devolution and place transformation progresses quickly, evolves in shape or follows a revised timetable, councils that are proactive today will be best placed to influence tomorrow’s decisions.
How SLC can help
SLC supports councils at every stage of Local Government Reorganisation, devolution and organisational change. Whether you are assessing options, preparing for implementation or positioning services within future arrangements, we provide practical support to help you make informed decisions.
Our support includes:
- Strategic reviews and service diagnostics
- Assessing opportunities and risks arising from LGR and devolution
- Developing the case for leisure, culture and active wellbeing within future structures
- Stakeholder engagement and partnership development
- Peer learning through our LGR Network and themed sector events
- Facilitating discussions between councils, partners and service providers
We help councils ensure that active wellbeing services are understood, valued and positioned to contribute to wider organisational priorities.
