The future of local government – and what it could mean for Tewkesbury
Tewkesbury Borough Council (TBC) has published full details and plans around potential local government reorganisation, including information on the upcoming English Devolution White Paper and proposed timelines.
Differing Views on England’s Devolution Plans
Government’s Position: Streamlining and Empowering
The UK government, led by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, has launched a “devolution revolution” aimed at transferring powers from Westminster to local leaders. Key proposals include merging district and county councils into unitary authorities of around 500,000 people and expanding the powers of elected regional mayors. Ministers argue this will eliminate duplication, increase efficiency, and save up to £2 billion, which could be redirected to frontline services.
Local Authorities’ Concerns: Loss of Local Representation
Many local councils and organisations have raised concerns. The District Councils Network warns that creating larger “mega councils” could make decision-making more remote, reducing democratic accountability and undermining the purpose of devolution. Councils fear that this shift could strip millions of residents of genuinely local representation.
In Devon, all district councils and Exeter City Council have opposed a proposed unitary authority, stating that it would make governance too distant from local communities.
Financial Concerns: Risk of Higher Council Taxes
Financial implications are also controversial. Councils neighbouring financially troubled authorities—such as Nottingham, Woking, and Thurrock—worry that being merged could force them to absorb high debts. The government has ruled out debt write-offs, raising fears of increased council tax rates and cuts to services in some areas.
Regional Variations: Uneven Buy-in
Support for devolution differs across England. In the Midlands, while some councils are in favour of forming combined authorities, others—like Luton, Bedford, and Milton Keynes—have pulled out of joint plans, opting instead to pursue localised alternatives. This uneven buy-in reflects broader tensions around the uniformity and fairness of the government’s approach.
Expert Views: Call for Clear Constitutional Frameworks
Experts such as Professor Vernon Bogdanor have called for a clear constitutional settlement to define the division of powers between central and local government. Without such a framework, they warn, the reforms could erode national standards in public services and increase regional inequalities.
Conclusion
While the government views the devolution plans as a route to greater efficiency and empowerment, critics argue they risk centralising power within larger councils, raising taxes, and weakening local democracy. The success of these reforms will hinge on genuine consultation, fiscal transparency, and a coherent national strategy that ensures fair and accountable governance across all regions.