James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
Latest news and stories
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Strategic authority debate: Super region plans spark debate in Thames Valley
Plans for a Thames Valley strategic authority covering Reading, Swindon, and Oxford have sparked both excitement and concern. The proposed body would oversee major housing, transport, and infrastructure projects, including a third Thames bridge and a rail link to Heathrow.
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Strategic authority debate: Could Reading, Swindon, and Oxfordshire unite?
Reading and Swindon could collaborate on major infrastructure projects under proposed local government reorganisation. The Labour government’s English Devolution White Paper suggests forming Strategic Authorities with at least 1.5 million people, potentially merging Berkshire with Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
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Thames Valley Police decides to increase council tax by 6.22%
Thames Valley Police has decided to increase the council tax it collects by 6.22 per cent in an effort to provide ‘strong local policing to keep streets safe.’
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Government proposed changes to planning laws criticised by Reading MP Matt Rodda
Although the proposals have not been finalised yet, Mr Rodda has argued they would lead to an increase in ‘ugly and cramped developments’ both in the town and on its outskirts.