... but some will be more equal than others...
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Oxford City is to expand its boundaries over the green belt to become Greater Oxford Council
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West Oxfordshire and Cherwell (excepting towns and villages taken over by the City) are to merge as North Oxfordshire Council
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South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse (with similar exceptions) will merge with West Berkshire as Ridgeway Council.
"This will address Oxford’s housing constraints, better reflect the city's economic geography and ensure that Oxford has its own seat at the table..." according to the press release.
The County and other district councils were quick to express their disappointment. West Oxfordshire has consistently supported a two-unitary solution. Tim Bearder, leader for Oxfordshire County Council, points out that "The three-council model does not meet the government's [own] criteria... It offers the lowest cost savings of all the proposals".
The Oxford Clarion has an excellent overview of the decision and its consequences. Read it here.
DATELINE 09/02/2026: there are three proposals for new unitary authorities in Oxfordshire but which one is best?Residents are being urged to take part in a government consultation that could fundamentally reshape how local government works in the county - and how key services are delivered - for decades to come.
At its heart is a proposal to abolish Oxfordshire's existing council structure and replace it with a new system of unitary authories by April 2028. What remains undecided is how many councils there should be - and where the power should lie.
The Oxford Clarion has produced an informative and entertaining guide to the three competing proposals.
The consultattion remains open until 26th March.