In a heated debate over Gloucestershire’s devolution future, a councillor sparked controversy by likening Bristol to the dark land of Mordor from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. The discussion centers on whether Gloucestershire should join the Bristol-focused West of England Combined Authority (WECA) or form a new alliance with Herefordshire and Worcestershire, known as the Three Counties combined authority.
Local government reorganisation across England aims to streamline decision-making by encouraging neighbouring areas to collaborate strategically. While six of Gloucestershire’s seven primary councils support joining WECA — primarily for economic advantages — Tewkesbury Borough Council is pushing to keep the Three Counties option alive.
Tewkesbury Conservative Councillor David Gray presented a vivid metaphor during the recent council meeting. Drawing from Tolkien’s works, he described Gloucestershire as “The Shire,” representing tranquility, gentle rural life, and natural beauty. By contrast, he cast Bristol in the role of “Mordor,” a bleak and overpowering presence.
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Gray expressed concern that joining WECA would funnel much of Gloucestershire’s funding and attention into Bristol, leaving the county relegated to the city’s outskirts. “I don’t like visiting Bristol,” he admitted. “It’s not a cool place to visit. It’s somewhere you want to leave as soon as possible.”
He advocated for Gloucestershire to merge with Worcestershire and Herefordshire, arguing that culturally and environmentally, this alliance better reflects the county’s identity. “We can be our own cool kids with the best environment, nature, and rivers. All the things Gloucestershire has to offer,” Gray said.
However, fellow Conservative Councillor Paul McLain of Highnam with Haw Bridge expressed a softer view of Bristol, stating he enjoys the city and has no personal issue with WECA. Despite this, McLain raised fears that Gloucestershire would bear the brunt of increased housing demands from the Bristol area if it joined WECA.
Regarding the cider debate, McLain threw in a nod to local pride by suggesting the best ciders come from the Three Counties rather than Somerset. “Much as I love Somerset cider, the best ciders come from Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire orchards,” he remarked.
Closing the session, McLain urged openness: “If we end up with WECA, we don’t want to burn those bridges. But we need to show we’ve seriously considered both options. While many of us might prefer The Shire — and no, I’m not saying Bristol is Mordor — my preferences lean toward the cider makers.”
As of now, government ministers have not confirmed a timeline for a decision on Gloucestershire’s future partnership.