LEADING councillors are due to be asked to support the development of plans for local government reform in Cumbria.

The Carlisle City Council's executive committee will meet virtually on Monday, September 28, to consider the issue outlined in a report by the chief executive, which seeks support to authorise council officers to work with their colleagues at other district councils to develop options for two unitary councils and a combined authority with an elected mayor.

Councillors will also be recommended to authorise that funds of up to £25,000 be identified to support the work of the project.

"Local government reorganisation is a means to an end. Government want to reorganise local government to establish effective and convenient local government and provide the basis for devolution deals, combined authorities and elected mayors," states the report.

"In anticipation of a request to submit proposals, this report seeks authority from the executive to work with colleagues at Allerdale, Copeland and Eden and commit resources to developing an outline proposal. This would be based, in accordance with district leaders’ wishes, on two unitary councils, a combined authority and an elected mayor thus ensuring that Cumbria can benefit from a devolution deal and the advantages of a combined authority and mayor leading and representing the sub-region."