Rutland will retain its historic name and ceremonial status amid plans to merge the county council with neighbouring authorities.

Rutland County Council leader Gale Waller (Lib Dem) told a meeting of the cabinet that she had been "working tirelessly behind the scenes" to ensure the county's name is not consigned to history.

A shake up of local government in 2028 will mean Rutland becomes part of a larger council – with council tax rates brought into line with Leicestershire.

Cllr Waller said: "Ever since the Government shared details of its plans to transform local government, there has been significant concern that this would lead to a loss of Rutland's name, identity and ceremonial status.

"For many residents, this is one of their biggest fears. We heard consistently throughout our public engagement that Rutland must not lose its identity when we are eventually merged with other local authority areas. 

"It is too special and too important. I fully understand and share these feelings. 

"At all times and at every opportunity, I have used my position as leader of this council to impress upon government officials and ministers at all levels just how important it is that we retain Rutland's name and ceremonial status."

Cllr Waller said she was pleased to report she had received the "strongest possible commitment" from the government that Rutland's historic name would not be lost.

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The meeting heard that local government minister Alison McGovern (Lab) had written to the county council to give reassurance over the county's civic status.

In her letter, the MP said: "The government has been clear that the historic identity, rights, and privileges of England's cities and counties are important.

"There is no intention that the necessary work to deliver simpler, more sustainable local government structures will affect ceremonial rights and privileges.

"We recognise the importance of Rutland's long and proud heritage, and the strength of local feeling in support of maintaining its ceremonial identity. 

"I can reaffirm the government's commitment to ensuring that any local government reorganisation will not inadvertently remove or diminish Rutland's ceremonial rights or privileges."

"I can confirm that the department will consider the use of existing legislative powers, including those provided under sections of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007, to ensure the continuity of Rutland's ceremonial status if necessary.

"The government remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the ceremonial heritage of areas such as Rutland, and we will continue to work constructively with local partners to ensure these historic privileges endure for future generations."

Cllr Rosemary Powell (Ind) said: "This is really good news to have this government commitment to Rutland's ceremonial status."

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Cllr Christine Wise (Lib Dem) added: "This is great to hear from the minister."