Local government reorganisation and devolution
The government believes that giving more powers to local areas, and reorganising councils if needed.
On 16 December 2024, the government published a white paper on a national programme of devolution and reform to local government.
The government believes that giving more powers to local areas, and reorganising councils where needed, can help grow the economy and improve public services. This is known as local government reorganisation and devolution.
Latest update - 16 July 2026
Government confirms three new unitary councils for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire.
The government has confirmed that three new unitary councils will be created for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire from 1 April 2028.
The new councils will replace the existing county, district and city councils, bringing local services together under three new organisations. This change is designed to simplify service delivery and make it easier for residents to access support.
Find out which new council will serve your community and what this means for your area: 3councils.org
Latest update on devolution
Following the response from government in June, leaders were unable to reach agreement on what the foundation strategic authority (FSA) should look like. This means it is unlikely that Oxfordshire will be included in the first wave of announcements for new strategic authorities across England, expected soon.
The county council and its partners remain committed to continuing discussions to secure a future devolution deal that will bring real benefits to people and businesses locally and across the region.