A Gloucestershire council is urging that the option of joining a Three Counties or Mercia combined authority remain part of the conversation amid ongoing devolution talks. As local government reorganisation continues across England, new powers are expected to be devolved to councils that form strategic combined authorities in the near future.
Currently, five district councils in Gloucestershire, along with Gloucestershire County Council, have expressed a preference for joining the Bristol-focused West of England Combined Authority (WECA). However, this process could take several years as North Somerset is expected to formally join WECA first. Reports also suggest that the Mayor of the West of England opposes Gloucestershire’s inclusion.
In response, Tewkesbury Borough Council has called for the county’s authorities to actively engage with neighboring councils in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and Warwickshire. Borough Council leader Richard Stanley emphasized the importance of a thorough debate on the matter, delaying a formal stance until councillors have had the opportunity to discuss both proposals fully.
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Councillors broadly favored closer ties with the northern neighboring counties, citing shared characteristics and historic links. Deputy Leader Sarah Hands stressed the importance of keeping all options open: “No matter what happens, why should we be told we’re locked into one path? We need to ensure Gloucestershire has a voice everywhere.”
Concerns were raised that joining WECA could threaten Gloucestershire’s distinct identity. Councillor David Gray noted the vast size difference between Bristol, with its half a million population, and Gloucestershire. He warned that Gloucestershire might lose its unique character, being absorbed into the Bristol-centric combined authority.
Conservative Councillor Paul McLain successfully proposed an amendment urging engagement with northern councils as well as WECA, arguing that Gloucestershire risks being overshadowed by larger neighboring authorities.
Reform UK Councillor Graham Bocking highlighted that the ultimate decision rests with central government, underscoring the need to maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders.
Independent Councillor Mike Sztymiak expressed a strong cultural affinity toward Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire, saying, “Culturally, we have a greater identity with those areas — it’s about hearts and minds, not just economics.” Reflecting on historic ties, he added, “Whether we call ourselves Mercia or something else, these ancient names still resonate with people around us.”
All councillors except one supported the proposal to keep the Three Counties or Mercia combined authority option on the table.