Earlier today, the Government outlined its decision to implement local government reorganisation in:
- Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock
- Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
These areas were fast-tracked for local government reorganisation as part of the 'Devolution Priority Programme'.
The Government is expected to announce its decision for local government reorganisation in Oxfordshire and West Berkshire in July.
"Cities need the right boundaries and powers to deliver the homes, infrastructure and employment space to meet the needs of our residents. And they also need their own voice, as do the residents of more rural areas.
"I welcome the government’s decision today to back boundary changes in Norwich, Ipswich and Southampton that will enable their expansion and ensure they have their own voice. This will create separate councils for urban and rural areas, reflecting the views of the majority of residents.
"Our proposal for local government reorganisation would expand Oxford's boundaries, helping to tackle the housing crisis, while protecting rural Oxfordshire from overdevelopment and giving rural communities a stronger voice."
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council
