Cotswold District Council writes to Government backing single-unitary option

In a letter to the Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness Alison McGovern, Council leader Cllr Mike Evemy said two of the three proposals had been considered: the single unitary authority for the whole of Gloucestershire, and the two-unitary option which would see one council serve the east of the county, and the other in the west.

Earlier this year, central government invited councils to submit proposals that simplify local government structures by 28 November. All options that meet its criteria will be consulted on early next year, with a final decision by the Minister for Local Government expected in summer 2026.

Cllr Evemy said both options were viable, each with strengths and merits, and either could be successfully implemented.  But the Council was unanimous in backing the single-unitary option – both at the Full Council meeting and later when Cabinet met to confirm the decision.

“On balance, we consider that this proposal for Gloucestershire provides a stronger and less disruptive basis for the delivery of services, and a more robust and resilient financial position than the two-unitary alternative,” Cllr Evemy said in his letter.

“As you will note from the options analysis set out in each of the proposals – which assessed them against criteria set by both the government and by the councils in Gloucestershire – the single unitary better meets more of the criteria. It offers greater simplification, more savings, and a stronger platform for high-quality, sustainable services.”

In the letter, Cllr Evemy also said he was proud of the “pragmatic” way the seven principal councils in the county had worked collaboratively to prepare a response. “It has ensured that to date, this complex process has been smooth and straightforward, placing the future of local government in our beautiful and vibrant county in good stead – whatever comes next,” he said.

The Council’s decision to back the single-unitary option was made at a meeting on Wednesday 26 November.

Further consultation on viable proposals is expected in the new year, ahead of a final decision next summer.