Dacorum Borough Council voted on Wednesday 12 November to confirm its position on the future structure of local government in Hertfordshire, a decision that will shape how our area is governed for a generation.
Council Backs Four-Unitary Model
Councillors chose between three possible options for Hertfordshire’s reorganisation. The outcome was clear:
- 26 councillors supported the four-unitary authority model
- 16 supported the two-unitary model
- None supported the three-unitary model
Politically, the division was notable. All but one Liberal Democrat councillor voted for the two-unitary option, supported by one Independent.
Meanwhile, the entire Conservative Group, the Labour Group, one Liberal Democrat, and the remaining Independent councillors backed the four-unitary model, which Conservatives believe offers the strongest protection for Dacorum’s identity and local decision-making.
A Key Concern: Final Decision Lies with the Liberal Democrat Cabinet
Despite the decisive vote of the full Council it is only deemed an 'indicative vote' and the final submission to Government will be made by Dacorum’s Liberal Democrat Cabinet, a minority administration that unanimously voted for the two-unitary model.
This places significant responsibility on the Cabinet to reflect the democratic will of the wider Council rather than the preference of their own group.
Graeme Elliot, Chairman of Hemel Conservatives and Borough Councillor for Chaulden and Warners End urged the Cabinet to stand by the vote of the full Council.
“I urge the Liberal Democrat Cabinet to stay true to their party name and respect the clear decision made by the full Council. This submission must reflect the democratic vote, not internal political calculations. The future shape of our local government should be determined in the interests of keeping democracy as local as possible, not by choosing the option that offers the best chance of remaining in power in any new authority.”
Why Hemel Conservatives Support the Four-Unitary Model
We have been consistent in our support for the four-unitary option because it provides:
- Strong Local Accountability: Smaller, community-focused authorities ensure decisions stay close to residents.
- Councils Reflecting Real Communities: The model respects the natural identity of areas like Hemel Hempstead, Tring and Berkhamsted.
- Locally Tailored Services: Planning, housing and community services can be shaped around Dacorum’s specific needs.
- More Responsive Governance: Smaller councils can respond faster and more effectively to local issues.
- Protection of Dacorum’s Distinct Character and Voice: The structure preserves Dacorum as a coherent, recognisable area within the new Hertfordshire landscape.
Managing the Transition
The Conservative Group within Dacorum Borough Council will work to ensure the transition is:
- Smooth
- Responsible
- Protective of frontline services
Next Steps
- 18 November: Cabinet meets to finalise Dacorum’s submission and decide whether to respect the vote of the Council
- By 28 November: A county-wide joint proposal will be submitted to Government
- Summer 2026: The Government decision will be made on Local Government Reorganisation for Hertfordshire
- 2027–2028: Shadow authorities are expected to be elected and new Councils begin to be established
Our Pledge to Residents
Hemel Conservatives will continue to:
- Defend local democracy
- Ensure Dacorum’s identity is protected
- Hold the Cabinet to the will of the full Council
- Keep residents informed at every stage
The four-unitary model remains the best option to keep decision-making local and ensure Dacorum’s voice is properly represented in the new arrangements.
