"The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is delivering most significant reforms of the State's council for more than a century - and part of that is the historic decision to create the new Armidale Regional Council,"  Mr Baird said.

"Under our rate protection commitment, residents of the new council will pay no more for their rates than they would have under their old council for four years

"The new, stronger Armidale Regional Council will draw together the unique skills and strengths of its predecessors to deliver improved services and better infrastructure, such as footpaths, pools, playgrounds and roads.

"It's time to get councils working better for local communities in the Northern Tablelands."

Mr Toole said that it will be business as usual for residents of the new Armidale Regional Council .

"Your library is still open when you need it and your bins still go out on the same night they always have. Job protections mean the number of council jobs in Guyra will stay the same," Mr Toole said.

"Following a recommendation by the delegate to proceed with the new council, I have decided to create Armidale Regional Council by merging the former Armidale Dumaresq and Guyra Shire councils."

Mr Toole said that $10 million from the NSW Government's Stronger Communities Fund would go towards long-awaited community projects.

"Projects such as fixing the region's ageing road infrastructure or investing in new junior sporting fields can now be top top priority," Mr Toole said.

"Importantly, local communities will decide how this money is spent."

Mr Toole said the financial benefits from the new council will improve planning and economic development to better respond to the changing needs of the community."