21 March 2008
Northern Ireland's 26 district councils are to merge into 11 new councils. A decision of the Northern Ireland Executive was opposed only by the two Ulster Unionist ministers after intensive negotiations between the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Féin led to a settlement.
Proposals by the previous direct rule ministers' Review of Public Administration – to set up seven 'super-councils' with enhanced powers – had been rejected.
The Executive decided to transfer fewer powers than the RPA had recommended, including only 'aspects of planning' and the public realm dimension of roads, along with regeneration, community development, local economic and tourism development and limited housing functions.
Environment Minister Arlene Foster said the reorganisation would lead to 'strong, dynamic local government'. She added: 'Critical to the delivery of services that are linked with local people's needs and ambitions will be the introduction of a statute-based, council-led community planning process.'
Details of the reforms, including which planning powers will be devolved, will not be announced until the minister makes a statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly after Easter.
The Northern Ireland Local Government Association had lobbied for 15 councils, but said it was relieved that progress on reform was now being made.
Arnold Hatch, the association's president, told Public Finance: 'We welcome the fact that at least a decision has been taken on the number of councils, but…we were looking for youth and library services, which are functions of every other UK local authority.'
PFmar2008
