A transformative plan to create a “powerhouse” council for Gloucester has emerged as part of the local government reorganisation proposals in Gloucestershire. The government is currently consulting residents on options to replace the existing two-tier council system, which separates responsibilities between county councils and district authorities.
Under the current system, county councils handle services such as road maintenance, education, and social care, while district councils oversee planning, housing, waste management, and recycling. The government is exploring proposals to merge these authorities into single unitary councils, consolidating all services under one body.
Among the proposals are a single unitary council covering all of Gloucestershire, an East-West division creating two unitary councils, and a Greater Gloucester model that champions an expanded Gloucester City Council combined with 21 surrounding parishes.
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Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, is a strong advocate for the Greater Gloucester plan. He emphasizes that Gloucester, with its rich 2,000-year history, must retain its own principal authority. Hilton warns against losing Gloucester’s autonomous representation for the first time in over five centuries.
Hilton explains, “The Greater Gloucester model unites the city with its neighbouring parishes, forming a cohesive community of approximately 180,000 residents, projected to grow to 200,000 soon. This ensures local voices in the parish councils have genuine influence within the unitary authority rather than being marginalized within a vast countywide ‘mega-council.’”
He further highlights that the plan safeguards historic roles such as the Mayor and Sheriff of Gloucester, allowing these offices to evolve with an expanded population and a more influential governing body. The strengthened council would have a focused approach to Gloucester’s specific needs, including economic development, regeneration, education, housing, social services, and environmental concerns.
Hilton urges all residents to participate in the government’s consultation, currently open until March 26. He advocates supporting the Greater Gloucester and Gloucestershire two-council option over alternatives that could dilute Gloucester’s influence or impose arbitrary geographical splits.
“Gloucester’s future depends on this decision. Voting for Greater Gloucester means preserving our city’s identity and securing a council dedicated to our unique challenges and opportunities,” Hilton concludes.