In my update last month, I wrote about the government’s plan to replace the seven principal councils in our county (Cheltenham Borough, Cotswold District, Forest of Dean District, Gloucester City, Stroud District, Tewkesbury Borough and Gloucestershire County) with one or more larger ‘Unitary Authorities’ which would have bigger populations and look after more combined services.

As Leader, it feels strange to write about what will inevitably mean the abolition of our Cheltenham Borough Council, which has served our town for over fifty years; however, I believe it is important that we rise to the challenge and choose a proactive path which is best for our residents and best for Cheltenham.

As expected, there is not an agreed plan across the county for us to take at this interim stage.

Three proposals have been submitted for consideration

Three different proposals have been sent to the government to be considered. Our proposal is the creation of two Unitary Authorities for Gloucestershire: one composed of Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and the Cotswold Districts; and the other being the councils of Gloucester, Stroud and the Forest of Dean.

I believe this is the most ambitious and exciting proposal that would meet the government guidelines without compromising on the local connection our residents feel towards their council.

So what comes next? There will be lots more consultation with people, organisations and partners to make sure everyone’s views are considered before a final submission to the government is made by November this year.

I am sure that the conversation to come will be forthright; this is a once in a generation opportunity and I will make sure that Cheltenham’s best interests are taken into account and that our residents’ voices are heard.