The government has confirmed that two new unitary councils will replace the ten existing county, city, district and borough councils across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
The new councils will use the existing district, borough and city council boundaries. Under the government's timetable, the councils are expected to be established in April 2028, with elections to shadow councils held in May 2027.
How did this decision come about?
The decision follows submissions of five proposals by councils in November 2025, followed by a public consultation which ran from 5 February to 26 March.
What happens to local services?
There will be no immediate changes to council services. Day-to-day services such as household waste collection, street cleaning, parks and highways maintenance, children's services and adult social care will continue to be provided as normal.
What's next?
Councils will now work together to develop detailed plans, including arrangements for how services will move to the new councils and how council decisions will be made.
More information about local government reorganisation can be found on the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent LGR Hub.