It's been announced that Oxfordshire and West Berkshire’s seven existing councils will be replaced by three unitary councils from 1 April 2028 as part of its plans for local government reorganisation.
Published: Thursday, 16th July 2026
The new councils will be:
- Northern Oxfordshire Council – covering most of the existing Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts.
- Greater Oxford Council – covering Oxford and its immediate surroundings.
- Ridgeway Council – covering most of the existing South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts, combined with West Berkshire.
The change will mean a single council is responsible for local services – such as housing, planning, recycling, roads and social care – in each area, rather than responsibilities being split between county, city and district councils.
While Cherwell was one of the five councils to endorse the two unitary authority proposal for local government organisation (LGR), we’ve been working collaboratively behind the scenes to plan and prepare for the future of council services in our area, regardless of which option the government chose.
We acknowledge the government’s decision. We will work seamlessly to ensure a smooth transition. Our priority is to continue serving our residents by delivering high-quality services, minimising disruption and protecting critical services.
Cllr Lesley McLean, Leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “Today’s announcement by Government to proceed with a three-unitary model for Oxfordshire is deeply disappointing.
“We have consistently argued that a two-unitary model offered the strongest foundation for the future of local government across the county: simpler structures, less duplication, greater financial resilience, and better outcomes for residents.
“We do not believe a three-unitary structure will deliver the clarity, efficiency or financial stability this reform was intended to secure. At a time of severe pressure on council budgets, creating three new authorities’ risks added complexity, duplicated senior leadership and avoidable costs — resources that should be focused on frontline services.
“While many communities across the district may see little change to their local identity, we are concerned about the impact a three-unitary model will have on parts of Cherwell like Kidlington and the communities in the south of the district which will be disconnected from their natural neighbours, weakening the connections that residents value. In some places, the boundaries proposed under the three-unitary model could separate communities.
“These communities are not simply suburbs or administrative lines to be redrawn around Oxford. They are distinct places with their own identity, history and democratic voice. Many residents will understandably feel their views have been overlooked, and that concern must be taken seriously.
“Reorganisation is not a substitute for properly funding local government. If new councils are to protect vital services and remain financially resilient, Government must provide fair and sustainable funding from the outset.
“I also want to reassure council staff, your professionalism, dedication and local knowledge are vital, and we will support you through this process, keep you informed and ensure you are treated fairly and with respect.
“The Government has made its decision. Our responsibility now is to ensure Cherwell’s voice continues to be heard, that our communities remain at the centre of discussions, we support our staff through the transition, and that any new arrangements are shaped by residents’ needs rather than administrative convenience.”
Over the next two years, the existing councils will continue working together to prepare for the new arrangements, keeping people informed as plans develop ahead of April 2028.
The full details of the three-unitary proposal can be found on 3councils.org