The Government has confirmed that Lichfield District will become part of a new southern unitary council from April 2028.
The new authority will serve Stafford, East Staffordshire, Cannock Chase, Lichfield District, Tamworth and South Staffordshire. A separate northern unitary council will cover Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Moorlands.
The decision follows proposals submitted by councils across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent earlier this year, and a public consultation.
Council response
Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said the authority had not sought the reorganisation and had put forward proposals it believed would best serve residents.
"While today's decision is not the outcome we preferred, the Government has now made its decision," he said.
"Our priority is to work positively and constructively with our neighbouring councils and Government to ensure the transition is well managed, protect the services residents rely on and make sure the interests of Lichfield District continue to be strongly represented."
What happens next
Shadow authority elections will take place in May 2027, with the new council arrangements coming into effect in April 2028.
Residents will see no immediate changes to council services. Lichfield District Council will continue to deliver services and provide updates as transition planning progresses.