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Councils to agree three options for new single-council structure
13/03/2025
A response to the government must be in by March 21
Meetings will be held next week at Oxfordshire’s district, city and county councils to agree a joint response to the government on the proposals that are being developed for new unitary structures in the county.
Currently in our area local government services are provided by both Cherwell District and Oxfordshire County councils. Three new structures are being suggested so we would have just one council overseeing all services.
The first option would see a single authority for the county – Oxfordshire Council.
A second option suggests a North Oxfordshire Council, created by merging the existing districts of Cherwell, Oxford City and West Oxfordshire.
The final alternative would see a unitary authority for the north of Oxfordshire from a point above an expanded Oxford city boundary.
In areas where the two-tier council system still operates the government requested interim proposals for new single-tier (unitary) authorities be submitted by March 21. The deadline for final proposals is November 28.
If the joint response is agreed further detailed discussions will then take place between the councils so the final proposals can be submitted. The government will then decide what form unitarisation will take in Oxfordshire.
Councillor David Hingley, Leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “Cherwell’s thriving market towns, valued rural communities, and diverse economy give our area a distinct identity, which we want to enhance through any local government reorganisation.
“We have worked closely with neighbouring Oxfordshire councils to develop credible initial options for further discussion. Our focus is prioritising strong local governance and securing the best outcomes for our residents.”
Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Local government reorganisation offers an opportunity to improve our services for residents and nurture a vibrant and inclusive economy.
“We must maintain the links between our great universities and organisations developing advanced technology, including on Bicester, Culham, Harwell and Milton Park campuses, so that our county can drive change across the Oxford to Cambridge corridor.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam