Five councils launch two-unitary proposal for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire and seek residents’ views on how local government could be improved
| The government will replace the current two-tier system of local government with new unitary authorities. It wants smaller existing unitary councils, like West Berkshire, to reorganise so they cover areas of around 500,000 people. The councils will launch a comprehensive public engagement exercise from 4 June to 15 July to gather views that will help ensure the final proposals reflect the needs and aspirations of residents. Residents can share their thoughts by taking part in the online survey by visiting twocouncils.org The majority of the Oxfordshire authorities and West Berkshire are working together on a proposal that meets the government’s criteria and provides an option for the future. This proposal would deliver better services while retaining a close link to local communities. The proposal – which is one of three being put forward for the area – is for two new unitary councils with the working titles of Oxford and Shires Council and Ridgeway Council. Oxford and Shires Council would comprise all of the existing district areas of Cherwell, Oxford City and West Oxfordshire. Ridgeway Council would be made up of the whole of West Berkshire Council’s area and all of the existing district areas of South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse. There would be strong continuity of services for residents, with the existing social care provision at West Berkshire Council and Oxfordshire County Council continuing as part of the new councils. Those in need will continue to receive their support without costly disaggregation of their services, which the government wants to avoid. The proposal will also focus on how the new councils can bring real economic benefits to the communities they serve, strengthening existing business partnerships and forging new ones in both urban and rural settings. They can also attend one of the engagement events held throughout Oxfordshire and West Berkshire. The closest of these are: Thursday 19 June Newbury Library, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AU 11am – 3pm Wednesday 25 June Hungerford Library, 2 Church Street, Hungerford, RG17 0JG 11am – 2pm Wednesday 25 June The Beacon, Portway, Wantage, OX12 9BX 1pm – 4pm Saturday 28 June Northbrook Street, Newbury 11.30am – 2.30pm All enquiries concerning this post should be directed to West Berkshire Council directly at customersevices@westberks.gov.uk or at the main switchboard 01635 551111 |
