Local Government - Future

Residents are being encouraged to have their say on one of the proposals for how councils may change across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire.

A partnership of councils — including West Oxfordshire, Cherwell, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse, and West Berkshire — is developing a proposal to replace the current two-tier system of district and county councils with two new unitary councils. This is one of three proposals being developed in response to Government’s requirement for structural reform.

The Government has made it clear that the current structure of county and district councils will be replaced by unitary councils that deliver all local services under one roof. This would represent a major reorganisation that could affect everything from road maintenance and rubbish collection to social care and planning decisions. Proposals need to be submitted to Government by 28 November 2025.

👉 As part of this, drop-in engagement events are being held in West Oxfordshire where residents can meet representatives, ask questions, and share their views:

📍 Bampton
 🗓️ Tuesday 8 July, 3pm–7pm
 📌 Bampton Village Hall, Market Square, OX18 2JH

📍 Witney
 🗓️ Thursday 10 July, 3pm–7pm
 📌 Marriotts Walk Shopping Centre, OX28 6GW

📣 No need to book, just drop in.

🗓️ Public engagement runs from 4 to 16 July 2025

 Find out more and give feedback online: https://twocouncils.org/home?fbclid=IwY2xjawLIr8BleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFMNjdveFNSaTk3Y1BZd2JHAR6Vqp4VwarjOGVwmTCUecNSk_Xv6iriO74wicx__4D3UEezOfWkuCNCvYquyA_aem_QO0aNcPKjxUfeqqcnV1AtQ