Councils - summary of changes

A summary of the outcomes of the Review of Public Administration.

New boundaries proposed by the RPA Map (left) showing the proposed new council boundaries

Junior Ministers - press releases can be found at the end this page.

Summary of changes

The Review of Public Administration has decided on seven councils for Northern Ireland. Belfast will be the only existing council to remain in its current form. The map indicates the other new council districts (boundaries still to be clarified.)

Local government

A Boundary Commissioner will be appointed to examine these boundaries, for example the natural boundaries of Belfast.
Maximum of 50 councillors per council, and councillors cannot be Assembly Members or vice versa. Pay and conditions to be examined.
Will have responsibility for planning, local roads, conservation of natural and built heritage, local economic development, community planning, regeneration, local tourism, arts and culture, community development and community relations.
Sustainable development to be 'at the heart of local government'.
Idea of civic councils to be discussed further.
'The voluntary and community sectors must consider how best to capture their collective voice and bring a powerful influence to bear in the community planning process.'

Health

One overarching Health and Social Services Authority to replace the existing Boards.
Five new Health and Social Services Trusts to replace the current 18, and in addition the existing Ambulance Service remains unchanged.
Seven local Commissioning Groups to aid decision making.
A new Patient and Client Council to replace the four H&SS Councils.

Education