With additional reporting by Esme Keeney and Olivia Churchill
Welcome to our running coverage of the latest developments surrounding the government’s proposed local government devolution plans and their potential impact on Oxford and Oxfordshire.
Stay tuned as we bring you updates from key discussions, reactions from local leaders, and what these changes could mean for residents. Whether it’s concerns about democracy, the future of local elections, or the potential for streamlined services, we’ll cover all angles toand keep you informed here.
County council responds to national proposals for the future of local government
Oxfordshire County Council has sent a letter to the government requesting fast-track local government reorganisation while pursuing a Mayoral Strategic Authority. All district and city council leaders participated in discussions, with most supporting the county’s approach.
Leader Liz Leffman emphasised the shared ambition for devolution to drive economic and cultural growth, despite Oxford City Council issuing a separate letter opposing the move. Further discussions are planned to ensure a unified approach to unitarisation and provide certainty for residents and stakeholders.
Oxford City Council writes to Government about devolution
Oxford City Council has written to the Government about its proposal for devolution and local government reorganisation in Oxfordshire.
The letter has been sent because Oxford City Council does not support Oxfordshire County Council’s request to cancel county council elections and to move forward with local government reorganisation ahead of agreeing the geography within which it would be operating as a Mayoral Combined Authority.
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, wrote to Jim McMahon MP, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, earlier today (10 January).
Council leaders to consider response to local government devolution plans
Oxfordshire councillors will discuss the government’s devolution proposals, which could replace the two-tier system with a unitary authority and integrate it into a Thames Valley mayoral authority.
Oxfordshire County Council plans to express concerns over postponing the 2025 elections but would accept it if elections to a new unitary council occur in 2026.
Leaders emphasise the need for dialogue and balancing streamlined governance with strong community connections, following the government’s white paper proposing the abolition of district councils and creation of larger authorities.
Council leaders split on local government devolution fast-track at expense of elections
Plans to reorganise Oxfordshire’s local government have raised concerns about delaying county council elections to 2026, potentially harming democracy. Oxford City Council leader Susan Brown criticised the move, warning it risks creating a democratic deficit and urged against rushing.
County council leaders argued delaying elections may be necessary to fast-track devolution and avoid uncertainty for staff and residents. Despite divided opinions, the cabinet unanimously agreed to send a letter supporting reorganisation while expressing reservations about postponing elections.
Here’s what to know about the Local government devolution proposals
In December 2024, the UK government unveiled plans to overhaul local government structures across England.
These proposals, outlined in the devolution white paper, seek to streamline local governance by creating larger, more powerful unitary authorities and transferring powers to mayoral combined authorities.
As the government moves forward with these plans, Oxfordshire residents must understand what’s at stake for Oxfordshire and how these changes might reshape the way services are delivered and decisions are made.
Debate heats up over future of Oxfordshire districts in local government restructuring
The government’s plans to restructure local authorities, abolishing district councils in favour of larger unitary councils, have sparked debate over whether South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse should join West Berkshire or remain in Oxfordshire.
While 75% of an informal survey supported a unified Oxfordshire council, critics argue the process is rushed and risks creating remote, unaccountable authorities. Concerns centre on maintaining local representation, transparent decision-making, and cohesive boundaries that serve communities’ interests rather than political convenience.
Oxford City Council Leader responds to Government’s devolution white paper
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, has welcomed the government’s proposal for mayoral combined authorities, stating it would bring decision-making closer to local people and improve housing, transport, and economic growth.
She acknowledged the government’s plan for unitary councils but emphasised that Oxford’s needs must be carefully considered. She also highlighted ongoing discussions with neighbouring councils about a Thames Valley Mayoral Combined Authority and a commitment to working with other authorities and the government to achieve sustainable growth and housing delivery.
Government unveils plans for local mayors for every region of England
The government has published an English Devolution White Paper that proposes new powers for mayors across England to boost growth, housebuilding, and transport. The plan empowers mayors in regions like Greater Manchester and the West Midlands to manage housing, transport, skills, and local growth.
It includes the creation of Strategic Authorities to enhance local decision-making and a shift of power away from Westminster. The reforms aim to improve public services, raise living standards, and support economic growth through more control at the local level.
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