The move follows the Government’s decision, announced in March 2026, to replace the current county, district and borough councils in Suffolk with a new system of unitary councils.
In its pre action letter, the council sets out concerns that the decision is unlawful and should be withdrawn.
The council argues that the proposal goes beyond the Secretary of State’s legal powers and does not follow the statutory process set out in legislation. It also says the decision departs from the Government’s own published criteria without clear justification.
The council has asked the Secretary of State to explain how the decision was reached, including the analysis behind it, and to withdraw the proposal.
If a satisfactory response is not received, the council will consider initiating formal judicial review proceedings.
Councillor Michael Hadwen, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
“Suffolk cannot be forced into a costly and chaotic reorganisation on the basis of a flawed process.
“The decision to take this action is about protecting Suffolk from expensive and unnecessary upheaval.
“Residents elected us less than a month ago to reform local government in Suffolk. We were clear before the election that we do not support reckless local government reorganisation by the Government, and that we would take all possible steps to protect residents and taxpayers’ money. That’s what we’re doing.
“We are therefore calling on the Government to listen, reconsider its approach, and abandon its plans. Any decision about the future of Suffolk must be made properly and transparently. We believe this proposal fails on these key tests.”
