The leader of West Oxfordshire District Council has expressed disappointment after the Government confirmed that Oxfordshire and West Berkshire’s existing councils will be replaced by three new unitary authorities from 01 April 2028.
The announcement on Thursday, 16 July, confirmed that the new council structure will include:
- Greater Oxford Council – covering Oxford and surrounding areas.
- Northern Oxfordshire Council – covering most of Cherwell and West Oxfordshire.
- Ridgeway Council – covering most of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, alongside West Berkshire.
The changes will see Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council and the county’s district councils abolished, with the new unitary authorities taking responsibility for all local government services, including housing, planning, recycling, roads and social care.
West Oxfordshire had backed two-authority model
West Oxfordshire District Council leader Councillor Andy Graham said the council was disappointed that its preferred two-unitary model had not been selected.
The council had supported a two-authority proposal, alongside other district councils, arguing that it would create simpler structures, reduce duplication and provide stronger financial resilience.
Councillor Graham said:
“Today’s announcement by Government to proceed with a three-unitary model for Oxfordshire is deeply disappointing.”
He said West Oxfordshire remained unconvinced that the chosen model would deliver the simplicity, efficiency and long-term financial sustainability intended through local government reorganisation.
Concerns over costs and complexity
Councillor Graham warned that creating three separate councils could increase costs at a time when local authorities are facing significant financial pressures.
He said:
“At a time when councils face unprecedented financial pressures, creating three separate organisations means additional costs that could otherwise be directed towards protecting frontline services.”
He added that local government reorganisation should simplify the system rather than introduce further complexity.
Focus on transition and local communities
Despite opposing the Government’s decision, Councillor Graham said West Oxfordshire District Council would work constructively with other authorities to ensure a responsible transition.
He said protecting the identity of West Oxfordshire’s towns, villages and rural communities would remain a priority.
“Those communities deserve councils that understand their needs, respond to local priorities and remain accountable to the people they serve.”
The council said it would continue delivering services, supporting economic growth, addressing housing and climate challenges, and representing the interests of local communities throughout the transition period.
New councils to launch in 2028
There will be no immediate changes to council services following the Government’s announcement.
The existing councils will continue operating until the new unitary authorities formally take over on 01 April 2028.
The next stages include:
- Autumn 2026: Expected structural changes order to legally establish the new council arrangements.
- May 2027: Elections for shadow authorities, which will prepare the new councils.
- Late 2026 to March 2028: Transition period covering services, staff and governance arrangements.
- 01 April 2028: New councils formally begin operating.
Councillor Graham said West Oxfordshire would continue to work with partners and communities to ensure local voices remain part of decisions shaping the county’s future.
He added:
“The Government has made its decision. Our responsibility now is to ensure that West Oxfordshire’s voice continues to be heard, that our communities remain at the heart of the discussion, and that any new arrangements are shaped by the needs of residents.”
