Stone would fall within a new western authority under Staffordshire County Council’s preferred east–west split, backed by the Reform UK-led cabinet this week.
Leaders say the proposal offers a fairer balance for residents, though critics argue a north–south divide would make more sense.
The plan would replace Staffordshire’s 10 existing councils with two new unitary authorities – one covering the east, and another the west.
Under the proposal, the new western council would include areas currently under Stafford Borough and Newcastle-under-Lyme, while Stoke-on-Trent, Lichfield and Tamworth would form part of the east.
The county council’s leadership believes this east–west model offers the best chance of creating two sustainable and balanced councils.
Although they continue to oppose the reorganisation itself, calling it “ill-advised” and “rushed” by the government, members say their proposal is the most evidence-based.
Deputy council leader Martin Murray said:
“The east–west option is all about parity and equity. We don’t want either new council to be disproportionately burdened or disadvantaged because all of our residents, regardless of where they live, deserve quality, value-for-money services.
“I made a commitment from the outset to put forward an option that is backed by evidence. An option that is more likely to deliver the best, not just for the individual wards we serve, but for the county and the city as a whole.”
A business case developed with consultants PwC found that both the east–west and north–south options would pay back their transition costs within 3.6 years.
Plans involving three or more councils would take longer.
The report says both main options meet the government’s six criteria for reform, including financial sustainability and having “sensible” boundaries, but the east–west model would produce two councils more evenly matched in population, economy and social need.
Councillor Murray also criticised other local authorities for campaigning for or against certain models.
“It is not a pick-and-mix of who would like to be with who, or perhaps wouldn’t like to be with. It’s about what is fair, equitable and gives the best chance of delivering our aspirations for Staffordshire’s people and their amazing county.
“We have used the government’s criteria and the east–west option simply stacks up better than a north–south split, or indeed any other options.”
Councillor Chris Large, cabinet member for finance and resources, said the modelling had been carried out professionally and independently.
“The fact that we’ve used PwC, which is the government’s preferred choice as well – they are respected accountants and consultants, I trust their judgement.
Also, our own senior officers have played a big part in doing this modelling. I think we’ve got it right.”
Councils have until Thursday 28 November to submit their final proposals. The government will decide which model goes ahead.
