The Government has today confirmed that Oxfordshire's current council structure will be replaced with three new unitary authorities, bringing an end to the existing county and district council system. While opinions will differ on the model that has been chosen, our priority is now to ensure this transition is delivered successfully and that residents remain at the heart of every decision.
The three new councils will be:
- Greater Oxford Council – covering Oxford and its immediate surroundings.
- Northern Oxfordshire Council – covering most of the existing Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts.
- Ridgeway Council – covering most of the existing South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts, combined with West Berkshire.
The current County and District Councils will continue to serve residents until April 2028, with elections for the new shadow unitary authorities due to take place in May 2027. Throughout this period, our focus must remain firmly on delivering high-quality public services and ensuring residents do not suffer because of the reorganisation process.
We will work constructively with colleagues across Oxfordshire to help deliver a smooth transition, but we will also hold those leading the process to account. Local government reform must not become a distraction from fixing potholes, supporting vulnerable residents, collecting waste, determining planning applications, and delivering the many other services that people rely on every day.
This reorganisation presents an opportunity to simplify local government, reduce unnecessary duplication and improve value for taxpayers. However, these benefits will only be realised if the new councils are financially sustainable, locally accountable and focused on delivering better outcomes for residents rather than simply changing organisational structures.
For Cherwell, it is essential that Banbury, Bicester and our villages continue to have a strong voice within the new arrangements. Decisions should be made as close to local communities as possible, and we welcome the commitment to strengthening the role of town and parish councils as part of the new system. We will continue to make the case for strong financial management, better local services, and practical leadership that delivers results. We believe residents deserve a fresh start, and we will be asking residents to back a new Conservative administration to bring back common sense and ensure their new council truly works for them.
That makes next May's local elections crucial. The councillors elected will play a major role in shaping the future of local government across Oxfordshire for years to come.
This announcement marks the beginning of a significant period of change. Conservative Councillors will keep residents updated and make sure North Oxfordshire's voice is heard every step of the way.
Find out more information on the Three Unitary Councils here.
Cllr Liam Walker, Leader of the Conservative Group at Oxfordshire County Council
Cllr Eddie Reeves, Leader of the Conservative Group at Cherwell District Council.
