Leader's blog - w/c 2 November 2026

"You’d be forgiven for being confused about the government’s reorganisation of our local councils. After September’s self-imposed pause, last week Ministers gave us a new timetable and indicated that Gloucestershire’s preferred option - a single unitary council – is likely to proceed. The new Gloucestershire Council will now be formed in May 2028, and district councils will cease to exist in April 2029.

It’s helpful to finally have some clarity, but local government’s real challenge is not reorganising structures. Councils like ours need proper financial support from national government to deliver local services. Our budgets have declined by around 40% in real terms over recent years, and the government’s financial settlement for Stroud District Council’s final year assumed efficiency savings through council mergers. Since the minister has delayed the timetable, we face a considerable challenge to fill that budget gap.

But perhaps the biggest issue is Gloucestershire’s lack of ‘devolution deal’. Government is handing out significant funding and other powers to existing and new regional mayors. But as we’re not yet part of a mayoral area, Gloucestershire loses out on this funding for core infrastructure. Six out of seven Gloucestershire councils and the current members have confirmed they support Gloucestershire joining the West of England Combined Authority. Ministers need to explain what's holding up this crucial decision for our area. Visit https://futuregloucestershire.org.uk/ for updates.

There’s a bit more change on the horizon for residents in Brimscombe and Thrupp, Chalford, Frampton on Severn, Great Oldbury, Minchinhampton, Standish and Upton St Leonards - do give your views on proposed changes to parish council arrangements in your area.

And finally, the Museum in the Park (in its 25th anniversary year) celebrates a double success, after being shortlisted in two categories in the prestigious Cotswolds Awards 2026. Do show your support for the museum and other local favourites by voting if you have a chance."

Cllr Chloe Turner, Leader of Stroud District Council