Tewkesbury MP Cameron Thomas and Borough Council Leader Richard Stanley have joined forces to express strong support for maintaining a single unitary authority across Gloucestershire. They warn that dividing the county into two separate authorities risks creating inequities in service delivery and investment.
Currently, a public consultation is underway exploring three proposals for reorganizing local government in Gloucestershire. The options include establishing one unified unitary council covering the entire county, expanding Gloucester City Council’s authority while separating the rest of the county, or splitting Gloucestershire into two unitary authorities—one for Gloucester, Stroud, and the Forest of Dean in the west, and another for Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, and the Cotswolds in the east.
In a joint statement, Thomas and Stanley emphasized that delivering fair, consistent services to every community is paramount. They argue that a single council is best positioned to manage shared resources like roads, emergency services, and public support programs efficiently.
“People’s lives don’t stop at district borders,” they noted. “Issues such as homelessness, transport infrastructure, family support, and care for the elderly impact the entire county—not just isolated areas.”
They cautioned that a split authority could lead to unequal investment and fragmented services, especially at a time when public sector resources are already stretched. A unified council would avoid duplication of administration, reduce back-office overheads, and save millions of pounds.
Of particular concern is the feasibility of dividing essential services such as fire and rescue, which currently operates too small to be effectively overseen by multiple councils. Other county-wide functions like fostering, education, and highways management are also cited as best administered under a single authority.
The leaders concluded that one council would safeguard Gloucestershire’s identity, protect community partnerships, and ensure equal support for residents regardless of location. They believe it would also strengthen the county’s collective voice in shaping its future.
The Government consultation is open until March 26, inviting residents to share their views on the proposed local government reorganization.