THE SEVEN leaders of Worcestershire’s councils have made a joint statement in respect of the Government’s plans for the future of local councils in Worcestershire expressing a commitment to work together.
The announcement on local government reform is expected in Parliament this afternoon (July 16) but the Observer has secured the joint reaction from the county’s political leaders in advance of its official publication.
From 1 April 2028, the county’s current seven borough, city, district and county councils will be replaced with two unitary councils: one covering North Worcestershire and one covering South Worcestershire.
After an extensive public consultation exercise, Wychavon District Council along with Redditch Borough, Bromsgrove District, Malvern Hills District, and Worcester City backed the north/south option last November whilst the county council favoured the one council plan.
“The debate is now over and we have a clear direction from the Government. Today, we come together to express our commitment to work collectively to make these new arrangements a success for residents, businesses and communities across the county.
“The decision also provides important clarity for staff across our councils, allowing us to fully focus on planning and delivering an effective transition without any negative impact on the services residents currently receive.
“Throughout this process, there have been strongly held and sincerely expressed views about the future structure of local government in Worcestershire. We recognise councils and residents have approached this debate from different perspectives.
“Now, moving forward, our shared priority will be ensuring every part of Worcestershire is properly represented and local voices continue to shape the decisions which must be made by April 2028.
“Above all, we are united in our determination to deliver high-quality, financially sustainable, transformed services that meet the needs of our communities both now and in the future.
“This is a moment of enormous change that will create exciting new opportunities but also great challenge. We will seize these with renewed purpose as we work together to build a strong and sustainable future for the people of Worcestershire.”
Coun Karen May, Leader of Bromsgrove District Council
Coun John Gallagher, Leader of Malvern Hills District Council
Coun Matt Dormer, Leader of Redditch Borough Council
Coun Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council
Coun Matt Jenkins, Leader of Worcestershire County Council
Coun Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council
Cllr Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council
