Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation in Suffolk

Local government in Suffolk is undergoing substantial change following the county's selection for the devolution priority programme. This means local government reorganisation is happening at the same time as the government creates a new mayor for Suffolk and Norfolk.

Suffolk’s 50-year-old two-tier council structure is set to change with the government proposing to abolish county, borough and district councils and replace them with a new unitary council arrangement and a directly elected mayor. Read the press release to learn more.

It's part of the government's English Devolution White Paper, which seeks to simplify and streamline council structures so it's easier for residents to understand and save taxpayers money.

Local Government Reorganisation in Suffolk

In response, Suffolk County Council is proposing to replace all six councils with one new council, delivering all services, local and county-wide.

Cllr Richard Rout explains the One Suffolk proposal and why it would be smarter, simpler and better for Suffolk:


Read the One Suffolk proposal

The full business case was published in September 2025, following engagement with residents, town and parish councils, businesses and local organisations.

While the information in the full business case is important, we know it's a big ask to read through over 300 pages. That's why we have published a Residents' Summary which breaks down the document and highlights the key information.

Prior to the development of the One Suffolk business case, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet approved an interim plan for local government reorganisation in Suffolk, which sets out the significant benefits of scrapping Suffolk’s six councils and replacing them with just one new authority.

Keep up to date with local government reorganisation in Suffolk by signing up to our newsletter.

Devolution: A mayor for Suffolk and Norfolk

Devolution involves the transfer of specific powers and funding from national government to local government, through the creation of a mayor. In Suffolk, this will result in the creation of a Mayoral Combined County Authority with Norfolk, resulting in a mayor covering both counties.

On 2 October 2025 Suffolk County Council’s cabinet voted in favour of creating a new mayoral authority for Norfolk and Suffolk - which will bring £1 billion to the counties in the next 30 years - following overwhelming support from councillors. Read the full press release to find out more. 

The government's consultation on its proposals to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority across Suffolk and Norfolk closed on 13 April 2025. You can view the consultation documents on the main Government website. 

Frequently asked questions


2022 County Deal consultation reports

In December 2022, Suffolk County Council and the government signed a proposed, in principle, devolution deal which would transfer certain powers and funding from the government to the county council. This deal was abandoned by government in September 2024.

As part of the then process, Suffolk County Council undertook a public consultation exercise. Although the consultation is no longer specifically relevant, we have published reports to conclude that piece of work for the public record.

Read the 2022 County Deal consultation reports