Setting the scene -- The way things used to be -- Reorganisatiin, reorganisation, reorganisation : the changing map of local government -- Explaining the persistence of the unitary principle in the department's mindset -- A strange affair : local government reorganisation in Northamptonshire 2018-2021, a case study -- Doomsday approaches and then recedes -- What is the problem about two-tier local government? -- Why bigger is not better -- Where do we go from here? -- Appendix : how devolution based on subsidiarity might work in England.

"Whilst the central government in Britain has often supported increases in local government size, this book argues that this has been detrimental and has caused the erosion of distinctive community identities that were previously represented by local authorities empowered to make significant local choices about services and future strategy. Drawing from national and international evidence, the book offers an alternative narrative about the size, role, function and purpose of local government to that currently dominating policy discussion. It provides readers who oppose size increases in local government with the evidence and arguments to influence change in their areas. The book will appeal to policymakers working in central and local government, as well as academics interested in public policy, public administration and local government."--Provided by publisher.