Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 13 January 2025 to Question 21621 on Unitary Councils, whether there is a recommended (a) minimum and (b) maximum geographical area for the size of a unitary council.

In our unitary invitation we have set out guidance to support councils as they develop proposals that are in the best interests of their areas. This includes guidance on issues of size, sensible geographies, efficiencies and financial sustainability, public service delivery, community engagement and devolution. Proposals should be for a sensible geography which will help to increase housing supply and meet local needs. It is for councils to develop robust and sustainable proposals that are in the best interests of their whole area.