New maps reveal how Norfolk could be carved up into three councils

New maps have revealed how Norfolk could be carved up into three councils - with some boundaries potentially raising eyebrows.

A partnership of six district and borough councils has revealed its vision for the future of local government in the county as part of a major shake-up.

Working together as ‘Future Norfolk’, West Norfolk, Breckland, Broadland, Norwich, Great Yarmouth and North Norfolk councils believe the best option is for three new authorities to be created.

Norfolk County Council wants one for the whole of Norfolk, while South Norfolk believes there should be two, dividing the east and the west.

The Future Norfolk business plan, to be submitted to the Government, shows the boundaries for the proposed Greater Norwich, East Norfolk and West Norfolk councils.

Greater Norwich, described as being the “economic powerhouse” of the county, reaches slightly beyond the north of Horsford and up to Wroxham while stretching as far as Blofield in the east, Poringland in the south and Honingham in the west.

East Norfolk has the most distinctive outline, enfolding Norwich within a crescent.

This proposed council covers the area currently served by Great Yarmouth and North Norfolk councils, as well as much of South Norfolk and Broadland.

It would stretch beyond Fakenham and up to Wells-next-the-Sea, placing huge swathes of ‘East Norfolk’ significantly to the west of much of ‘West Norfolk’.

West Norfolk would encompass what is currently West Norfolk Council, Breckland Council and a sliver of what is currently South Norfolk.

The main civic centres would be in Lynn, Great Yarmouth and Norwich.

In a joint statement, Future Norfolk said: “This is about people, place and progress.

“Three local councils will bring decisions closer to communities, reflect the different needs of our coast, rural areas and city and deliver joined up services that are simpler, faster and better value for money.

“Three unitaries will mean local decisions can be made by local leaders and representatives who live in and understand their communities.

“Services can be shaped by and tailored to the strengths and needs of each area while councils are still large enough to work efficiently in delivering people’s priorities across all council services, making the most of opportunities for Norfolk to thrive.

“Over 5,000 residents and stakeholders helped shape this plan recently.

“We’ve listened, we’ve tested the options and we’re now putting forward a practical blueprint for Norfolk’s future - ready for councillors to debate this month and for public consultation in November.”