This means that from 1 April 2028 new authorities will take over responsibility for delivering the services currently provided by the county council and the district and borough councils in that area.

The new unitary authorities will be:

• North West Hertfordshire - serving the communities of the existing Dacorum Borough Council and St Albans City & District Council
• South West Hertfordshire - serving the communities of the existing Hertsmere Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council and Watford Borough Council
• Central Hertfordshire - serving the communities of the existing North Herts Council (minus five district council wards), Stevenage Borough Council and Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (minus the Northaw & Cuffley borough council ward)
• Eastern Hertfordshire - serving the communities of the existing Broxbourne Borough Council and East Herts District Council, plus the Northaw & Cuffley borough council ward from the existing Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council area and Royston Heath, Royston Palace, Royston Meridian, Ermine, Weston and Sandon district council wards from North Herts Council.

Outlining the reasons behind its decision, the Government said that the four unitary council model reflects Hertfordshire’s distinct economic areas, the connection to local communities, a tailored approach to services and provides a strong foundation for devolution in Hertfordshire.

Hertfordshire is seeking the establishment of a Strategic Mayoral Authority with a directly elected Mayor for Hertfordshire as soon as possible to help unlock the county’s full potential. Local Government Reorganisation is an important step towards this.

The devolution of powers, funding and decision-making away from central government to a locally elected Mayor will enable better decision making about key economic drivers specifically designed around what works best for Hertfordshire.”

Councillor Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council said, “I believe this decision is the best option for Stevenage and for Hertfordshire. It simplifies services for residents, saves money, keeps the local in local government and will support growth and opportunity for our communities.

"I am pleased with the government's decision and welcome the clarity it provides. From the outset we have supported the four-council model, recognising it as large enough to secure meaningful efficiencies while remaining closely connected to the identities and priorities of our local communities.

"Over the past year we have built constructive partnerships with the other Hertfordshire councils, and we have worked closely together in preparation for a range of outcomes. Therefore, we are well positioned to move forward with confidence.

"Our focus now is to ensure a smooth transition that safeguards local services and makes the most of the opportunities that reorganisation will create. We will continue to provide high‑quality services right up until Stevenage Borough Council becomes part of the new unitary authority in April 2028."

All councils in Hertfordshire remain committed to ensuring residents continue to receive high-quality services now and in the future.

Elections to the new authorities will take place in May 2027. These elected councillors will help set up the new councils and operate in a “shadow” capacity ahead of the new authorities being established on 1 April 2028.

More information about Local Government Reorganisation in Hertfordshire can be found on the Hertfordshire LGR website.