Local Government Reorganisation

In the coming years, the government will replace the current two-tier system of local government, which consists of district and county councils, with new unitary authorities. It has asked current councils to put together proposals based on a set of criteria and with a target population of around 500,000 people.  

The government wishes for councils to work together on plans for how these new unitary councils will work. As a result, the majority of the Oxfordshire authorities have teamed up with West Berkshire to work together positively and constructively on a proposal that meets the government’s criteria and also provides an option for a better future for both Oxfordshire and West Berkshire. This proposal would deliver better services while retaining a close link to local communities.

The two unitary proposal

The proposal is for two new unitary councils with the working titles of Oxford and Shires Council and Ridgeway Council. It aims to create strong, financially stable councils that provide high-quality, cost-effective, and locally driven services.

• Oxford and Shires Council would comprise all of the existing district areas of Cherwell, Oxford City and West Oxfordshire.
• Ridgeway Council would be made up of the whole of West Berkshire Council’s area and all of the existing district areas of South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse.

You can find out more about this proposal by visiting the following website:
 https://twocouncils.org/home?mc_cid=17a6b6062f&mc_eid=8be8a8eefe 

This proposal is one of three being developed.

The other two proposals 

A single unitary council covering the current county council boundary. This is being developed by Oxfordshire County Council.

Three unitaries

1. One covering Oxford City but with expanded boundaries from the current city council. 
2. A second including the current districts on Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire along with West Berkshire.
3. A third including the current districts of West Oxfordshire and Cherwell. This proposal is being developed by Oxford City Council.

All the final proposals must be submitted to the government by 28 November, after which the government will chose which model is to be put in place. Any new councils would likely take effect in 2028 at the earliest.

The councils have launched a comprehensive public engagement exercise from 4 June to 16 July to gather views that will help ensure the final proposal reflects the needs and aspirations of residents. Your input will directly shape how the two unitary proposal is developed and you can have your say by visiting the following website:

https://theconversation.southandvale.gov.uk/corporate-services/two-councils/?mc_cid=17a6b6062f&mc_eid=8be8a8eefe

You can also attend one of the engagement events held throughout Oxfordshire and West Berkshire. Officers will be available to listen to your thoughts, take feedback and discuss the two unitary proposal.

• Bampton Village Hall, Market Square OX18 2JH 3pm-7pm on Tuesday, 8th July
• Unit 14a, Marriotts Walk, Witney OX28 6GW 3pm-7pm on Thursday, 10th July