URL: https://democratic.southoxon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1079

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: This shall cover the work to respond to government directions on reorganisation at a regional level, advising as to responses to applications at County level impacting tier 2 authorities including South and Vale, to prepare for a shadow authority and for transfer of responsibilities to that authority as well as for actions relating to the strategic authority.

Content: RESOLVED: a)    To note that since the statutory invitation to all councils in two tier areas, significant work has been undertaken by all Oxfordshire Councils and that South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Councils’ officers have engaged with officers across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire. b)    To note that two other proposals will be submitted, one proposed by Oxfordshire County Council covering the Oxfordshire area and one from Oxford City Council covering the Oxfordshire and West Berkshire area. c)    To approve the submission of a full proposal for a two unitary model based on one new unitary council covering the entire existing boundaries of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils and West Berkshire Council, with the working title of ‘Ridgeway’, and a second new unitary covering the entire existing boundaries of Cherwell and West Oxfordshire District Councils and Oxford City Council, with a working title of ‘Oxford & Shires’. d)    To delegate to the Deputy Chief Executive – Corporate and Communities authority, with the agreement of the Leaders, to make changes to the proposal document prior to submission to Government. e)    Subject to (c) being approved, note that Cherwell District Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, Vale of White Horse District Council and West Oxfordshire District Council will submit the full proposal directly to Government in line with the Oxfordshire invitation letter.  

Date of Decision: November 13, 2025