On Wednesday evening, the Government wrote to the Leaders and Chief Executives of all nine Councils in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire formally inviting them to submit proposals to create a new, City and County-wide structure of unitary authorities.
What this means in practice is creating a single tier of local authorities responsible for providing all services in their areas.
The invitation is part of a wider package of reorganisation to public services with the intention of reducing costs and improving services.
Councils will continue to work together to meet the government requirements and submit an interim plan by the deadline of 21 March.
This is the biggest shake-up of local government in 50 years and following the initial plan, Councils will be asked to submit their final proposals by 28 November.
All nine councils will continue to work together in the public interest, exploring all options available that meet the Government's requirements.