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Government confirms three new unitary councils for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire in 2028  

The government has today (16 July) announced that Oxfordshire and West Berkshire’s seven existing councils will be replaced by three unitary councils from 1 April 2028 as part of its plans for local government reorganisation (LGR).  

Important changes to planning, land charges and mapping services

Our new Land Charges system and Land Charges Register are now live.

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Decorative montage of landscape images

July 3, 2026

Joint Local Plan Examination Hearings 

The second stage of public hearings for the South and Vale Joint Local Plan start next week. 

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 29, 2026

Heard of local government reorganisation? How does it work?

Local government reorganisation (LGR) might sound complicated, but at its heart, it’s simply about redesigning how councils work so services are easier to access, more efficient and more financially sustainable.

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 23, 2026

What happens after the government approves a local government reorganisation proposal?

Once the government decides to approve a local government reorganisation (LGR) proposal, the real work begins. While the decision itself is a major milestone, it’s only the start of a long, carefully managed transition designed to make sure services continue smoothly and residents are supported every step of the way.

Abbey Meadow Pool

June 22, 2026

Beat the heat in the Vale

A guide to services and advice from the council, as well as local and national organisations, to help during the summer months.

Map showing proposed FSA area

June 18, 2026

Joint statement from South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils on local devolution

The leaders of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have reaffirmed their commitment to working constructively and collaboratively with all partners and the government on discussions around a new strategic authority that would cover the Thames Valley.

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 16, 2026

What is local government reorganisation and why should you care?

Local government is the part of the public sector that delivers the everyday services we all rely on – things like roads, libraries, housing, recycling, social care, parks and community support.

Decorative montage of landscape images

June 3, 2026

Next steps for Local Plans 

Councillors in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse will this week review an update to the timetable for the Joint Local Plan and its plans for development in the area. 

Biffa Truck

May 11, 2026

Councils’ new residential waste collection contract announced 

One of the country’s most successful residential waste collection services is set to continue and build on past achievements.

Image showing a map of Oxfordshire and Berkshire as part of a mayoral strategic authority.

March 24, 2026

Thames Valley devolution expression of interest moves forward

An updated expression of interest letter has been submitted to government following detailed conversations with ministers about creating a strategic authority in the Thames Valley.

Two Councils. One better future.

February 26, 2026

Five Councils outline how a two-unitary proposal would reimagine council service delivery across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire

Published Thursday 26 February 2026 Council leaders have set out how the proposal to replace seven councils across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire with two, streamlined, more cost-effective unitary councils is the only option on the table that puts service-improvement at its heart, while retaining a clear local focus in each area.  Under the two-unitary proposal, services including highways maintenance, adult social care, children’s […]