County Council proposes single unitary council for Oxfordshire
31/10/2025
They say the option would save over £63 million annually
Oxfordshire County Council have set out their case for a single unitary authority to look after the county following local government re-organisation.
They say their ‘One Oxfordshire’ proposal sets out a strong, evidence-based case for a single unitary council, which would save over £63 million annually, in comparison to the current two-tier model.
Critical services such as adult and children’s social care and provision for special educational needs and disabilities would be protected, avoiding the costly and risky process of separating them across several unitary authorities.
Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “One Oxfordshire sets out a bold vision for a stronger, fairer and more ambitious future for every resident and business in the county. By bringing together all council services into one single financially resilient authority, we can unlock the full potential of our people and places, drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and deliver high quality services our communities deserve.”
County Councillors will now discuss the county council’s proposal, which must be submitted to government ministers by November 28.
More details of the case for ‘One Oxfordshire’ can be found here.
Alternative ideas have been put forward by Oxford City Council, who believe there should be a council for the city with an expanded border and two other councils for the north and south of the county, and by Cherwell and other district councils, who are proposing an Oxford and Shires Council covering the Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts and Oxford city.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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