Gloucestershire is currently considering a major shake-up of its local government structure, with residents invited to share their views on proposed changes. The Government is consulting on three options for reorganisation.
The first proposal is a single unitary council that would absorb all responsibilities of Gloucestershire County Council and the six district councils. The second envisions an east-west division, forming two unitary councils: one comprising Gloucester, Stroud, and the Forest of Dean; the other including Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, and Cotswold. The third option suggests an expanded Gloucester City Council paired with a separate authority covering the rest of the county.
Martin Horwood, former MP for Cheltenham and serving County, Borough, and Parish Councillor, advocates for the east-west split. He warns against the loss of Cheltenham Borough Council’s 150-year legacy under a single super-council. Horwood questions how well local priorities—such as Cheltenham Festivals, the Everyman Theatre, or the Pump Room—would fare when decision-making centers move farther away.
“Small is not only beautiful but also more accountable, responsive, and efficient,” Horwood says. “In smaller councils, each community’s voice is louder, bureaucracy is reduced, and agility increased. The east-west division is clear and practical.”
Addressing concerns about splitting Gloucestershire, Horwood draws parallels to other areas where unitary authorities have been divided without losing their identity—such as Bath in Somerset or Swindon in Wiltshire. He highlights examples from across England where multiple smaller councils have thrived, achieving outstanding ratings in services like children’s care and adult social support.
Financial analysis supports the east-west plan, with a negligible budget difference of about £20 million on a combined total of £850 million—just 2%. Government funding formulas also tend to favor less affluent councils, helping balance disparities.
Quoting EF Schumacher, Horwood concludes: “There is a tremendous longing for the convenience, humanity, and manageability of smallness.” He urges Gloucestershire residents to back the proposal for two smaller councils instead of a solitary giant authority.
The consultation on local government reorganisation runs until March 26, inviting everyone to make their voice heard.