Agenda and draft minutes

Prayers were led by Father Ben.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Beal, Bearshaw, Collop, Dickinson, Everett, Fry, Hodson, Humphrey, Jamieson, Kunes, Lawrence, Lowe, Moore, Parish, Spikings, Tyler and de Winton.

Please indicate if there are any interests which should be declared.  A declaration of an interest should indicate the nature of the interest (if not already declared on the Register of Interests) and the agenda item to which it relates.  If a disclosable pecuniary interest is declared, the member should withdraw from the room whilst the matter is discussed.

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Councillors Colwell, Dark, Kemp, Kirk, Long, Moriarty, Sayers, Storey and Ring declared interests in C56: Final Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk as Norfolk County Councillors. 

It was noted that the Standards Committee had granted a dispensation to ‘twin hatter’ on this matter.

To receive any items of business which in the opinion of the Mayor are urgent. 

There was no Urgent Business.

(Members are reminded this is a debate, not a question and answer session)

To consider the following recommendation to Council from the Cabinet Meeting held on 16 September 2025.

Final Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk

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Councillor Beales, seconded by Councillor Ring, formally proposed the recommendation from the Cabinet Meeting held on 16 September 2025 regarding the Final Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Norfolk.

Councillor Beales, in his capacity as Leader, spoke in support of the proposal. He expressed gratitude to all involved in its development and outlined the anticipated social, economic, and financial benefits. He noted that Breckland District Council had confirmed its support for the submission earlier that day.

He further highlighted the opportunities presented by advancing technology, including the integration of artificial intelligence and the advantages of the Prevent Agenda.

Council noted that the proposal had been scrutinised by the Joint Panel and considered by Cabinet on its way through to Full Council.  There had also been a range of briefing sessions arranged for Members.

Councillor Long stressed the importance of ensuring the proposal served the residents of West Norfolk. He noted that reorganisation had been imposed on Norfolk, necessitating a submission. He emphasised the significance of local delivery and accountability, particularly in rural areas

Councillor Bone commented that this proposal was the most democratic way forward and the Labour Group would be supporting it.  He thanked all those involved and looked forward to the opportunities the new Unitary would bring.

Councillor Kirk confirmed support from the Reform UK Group, stating the proposal was the best option for West Norfolk. He extended thanks to all involved.

Councillor Kemp supported the West Norfolk proposal, commenting that Norfolk was too large to be served by a single Unitary authority. She referenced Norfolk County Council’s debt and staffing challenges and called for Government funding to support the reorganisation.

Councillor Devulapalli supported the principle of Reorganisation as Councils should be less complex in order to serve residents.  She felt that the three Unitary model was the best way forward and thanked all those involved.  She commented that it was a shame that Norfolk County Council had not engaged in the process along with the six Districts.

Councillor Moriarty welcomed the comprehensive briefing sessions and opportunities for Member questions in the lead up to the submission. He supported the proposal and voiced concern over the content of the Norfolk County Council proposal.

Councillor de Whalley stated that the three Unitary model met Government criteria, addressed local needs, and was robust. He commended the high level of engagement and consultation throughout the process.

Councillor Dark emphasised the importance of progressing with a submission in line with Government timescales. He supported the proposal and clarified that his role at County did not present a conflict of interest.

Councillor Joyce commented that service delivery was important and this proposal was the best for local service delivery.  He indicated that he would propose a recorded vote on this item.

Councillor Osborne spoke in support of the proposal, commended the level of engagement and consultation and was confident that the three unitary proposal would work as set out in the  ...  view the full minutes text for item C:56