Local Government Reform and Devolution explained

The structure of local government in England may appear straightforward at first glance, but the reality is often more complex.

Responsibilities are shared across several tiers of government – including county councils, district/borough councils, and parish/town councils – each with different statutory functions and discretionary powers.

While some services – such as education, social care, or waste disposal – sit firmly within the remit of county (or unitary) authorities, others may be provided at the more localised levels, depending on community needs, historical arrangements, or formal agreements. Devolution, both formal and informal, has allowed for greater flexibility. It enables some functions to be transferred to lower tiers through delegation arrangements, especially where local councils are best placed to deliver services due to their community knowledge. However, such devolution is not uniform and depends on local context and partnerships between the tiers.

See the document attached