The way services such as road repairs, social care, planning, and waste collection are managed in Gloucestershire is set to change dramatically in the coming years. Residents now have the opportunity to voice their opinions on three proposed major local government reorganization plans.
The UK government aims to simplify local governance by merging district authorities with county councils to create stronger, more efficient unitary councils. In Gloucestershire, this would mean dissolving the current districts and consolidating services under one or more new unitary councils.
There are three main proposals on the table:
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A single unitary authority covering the entire Gloucestershire County Council area, proposed by Cotswold District Council, Gloucestershire County Council, Stroud District Council, and Tewkesbury Borough Council.
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A split of the county into two unitary authorities — East Gloucestershire (Cheltenham, Cotswold, and Tewkesbury) and West Gloucestershire (Forest of Dean, Gloucester, and Stroud). This plan is backed by Cheltenham Borough Council.
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The creation of a Greater Gloucester authority incorporating Gloucester City and 21 surrounding parishes, alongside a separate council for the remainder of the county, as proposed by Gloucester City Council.
Forest of Dean District Council has chosen not to submit a proposal, citing concerns that the reorganization could reduce local democratic representation.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is conducting a statutory consultation on these proposals until March 26. Residents are encouraged to participate by completing an online survey or submitting their views by email or post. When responding in writing, participants should specify which proposal they are addressing.
This consultation is a crucial chance for Gloucestershire residents to shape the future of their local government and ensure their voices are heard in decisions that will affect how local services are delivered.