Ministers are preparing to outline plans for merging smaller district councils with larger county councils to streamline local government services across England.
The move to introduce more elected metro mayors aims to provide them with increased powers over planning, thereby expediting the delivery of housing and infrastructure.
The body representing district councils warns that the proposed reforms could lead to 'turmoil' and jeopardize local decision-making in what they refer to as 'mega-councils'.
Currently, local government in England features a complex structure of dual and unitary councils, with the latter handling both local services and broader responsibilities.
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