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.
The 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.
This is one of the biggest changes to local government in generations, and it's now vital that the transition is handled properly.
My priority is simple: residents must not lose out and we must ensure local democracy is kept local. We need to ensure essential services such as social care, children's services, highways, waste collection and planning continue to be delivered effectively throughout this process. Any savings from reducing bureaucracy should be reinvested into improving frontline services, not swallowed up by expensive reorganisations.
As Leader of the Conservative Group at Oxfordshire County Council, I will work constructively throughout this transition while holding those in charge to account. We need a council structure that delivers better value for taxpayers, protects local communities, and gives residents confidence that decisions will be made fairly and efficiently.
The current County and District Councils will continue to operate until April 2028, ensuring services continue while the new councils are established. Elections for the new shadow authorities are expected to take place in May 2027, with those councillors responsible for preparing the new unitary councils before they formally take over.
That means next May's local elections will be crucial. The councillors elected will have a major role in shaping the future of local government across Oxfordshire for years to come. I look forward to continuing to make the case for strong local representation, sound financial management and protecting the services residents rely on.
This announcement marks the beginning of a significant period of change. I will continue to keep residents updated and make sure West Oxfordshire's voice is heard every step of the way.
Find out more information for the Three Unitary Councils here.
