This blog is part of our mergers and devolution series. For a comprehensive look at council restructuring, don’t miss our informative whitepaper Council mergers and devolution: Embracing change – free to download today.
Released in December 2024, the English Devolution White Paper sets out the government’s plans to restructure existing two-tiered authorities into single, unitary authorities and create new strategic authorities across England. This large-scale restructuring, while expected to take years to complete, nonetheless represents significant upheaval for government bodies, requiring a sea change in structures, strategies, and responsibilities in the delivery of public services.
In with the new
To achieve a smooth transition, restructuring committees will need to embrace the automation and streamlining capabilities of the latest digital solutions. Systems will need to be unified, and data will need to be accurately and efficiently integrated. Cloud systems will be crucial to a unified strategy, as will the latest AI tools.
Restructuring will mean forging new relationships with technology partners, and in some cases, expanding the scope and scale of existing partnerships. These partnerships will be critical to the implementation of centralised systems, enabling proper collaboration between newly merged councils and departments.
The value of experience
Steering committees and buying teams will need to choose technology partners that are not only closely aligned to the needs and challenges of the authority but also have the requisite sector experience. Trust is critical – some tech partners have a reputation for overpromising and not providing clarity on the solution’s limitations.
Any prospective technology partner will need to have a proven track record supplying to government, evidencing projects with case studies and historical data. They must be transparent, citing capabilities and limitations at the outset. At the same time, partners should be able to provide a current roadmap for software updates and new features.
It starts with support
Merging authorities should embrace tech companies that can offer a true partnership, above those that merely fulfil the role of vendor or supplier. These partners should be brought into the fold early on, so they gain a thorough understanding of requirements. They should offer an onsite presence and have the authority to educate, advise, and raise difficult questions.
They should also action technical requests quickly – slow response rates are a common blocker for government authorities. What’s more, any technology partner should offer ongoing support, from early-stage decision-making through to implementation and beyond – support for the entire life cycle of the solution.
Success through innovation
Government authorities should prioritise partnerships with those who innovate, embedding new and emerging technologies – including agentic AI – in their software to solve common challenges. Partners should be leaders in their field, with ongoing investment in digital solutions that make life easier for employees and improve the delivery of key public services.
Innovative solutions need to extend beyond the technology itself. Many local councils will require training programmes for staff, equipping employees with the skills necessary to adopt new systems seamlessly. A good technology partner should recognise the human side of transformation, fostering an environment where employees feel confident using new tools.
Future proofing
The long-term success of restructuring will depend on the foundation built during the critical early stages. A strategic approach, reliant on visionary leadership and strong partnerships, is key to developing resilient, tech-driven councils. With consolidation comes the opportunity to future-proof systems and services that align with the modern expectations of efficiency, transparency, and robust service delivery.
Government bodies that treat partnership decisions as foundational to success are more likely to emerge stronger and better prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Authorities that take this opportunity to invest not only in the right technologies but also in sustainable partnerships will lead the charge in setting new standards for public service excellence.
Local authorities are on the cusp of seismic change. With challenges come opportunities, and it is clear that technology must be the driving force behind this evolution. A trusted technology partner will not only help councils adapt but also thrive in this dynamic new landscape.
Find out more
Don’t miss our whitepaper Council mergers and devolution: Embracing change where you’ll find key information on the proposed authority structures, how to prepare for organisational change, and the critical role of technology in council restructuring.