Gloucestershire leaders are hopeful that by joining the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), the county can benefit from Bristol’s economic strength. On March 18, Gloucestershire County Council expressed its clear preference to become part of the Bristol-centered partnership as local government reorganisation continues across England.
The county is moving towards merging district councils with Shire Hall to form one or more unitary authorities. This structural change would enable Gloucestershire to join a combined authority—an arrangement where multiple councils collaborate on key regional matters such as economic growth, transport, and housing.
Although there are other options, including establishing its own directly elected mayor or partnering with Herefordshire and Worcestershire, council leaders insist that joining WECA offers the best prospects. Economic data supports this choice as the most advantageous for the county’s future.
READ MORE: Countryfile Star Matt Baker’s Family Faces Difficult Choice to Save Farm
READ MORE: Emergency Incident Causes Bus Diversions in Cheltenham Town Centre
Council leader Lisa Spivey emphasized Gloucestershire’s existing connections with the South West region and the importance of making the government aware of their preference. “Devolution presents the big prize after the challenges of local government reorganisation,” Spivey said. She highlighted the county’s current collaborations with WECA on transport, skills development, and health, reinforcing the natural alignment.
Cabinet member for highways Joe Harris added that a strong economic base within a combined authority is essential. “We are fortunate to have Cheltenham and Gloucester,” he said, “but they are overshadowed by Bristol’s size.” Harris expressed his desire for Gloucestershire to share in the prosperity generated by Bristol and play a significant role in a diverse mayoral combined authority. “That’s an exciting opportunity,” he noted.
A spokesperson for WECA confirmed ongoing constructive cooperation with Gloucestershire councils and other partners to serve the wider West of England community.