Last week we shared a statement on the news that LGR in West Berkshire and Oxfordshire had been paused. VCS groups across West Berkshire and Oxfordshire may already know a lot about this, but maybe you want to know a little more about what LGR is and how it might affect you. If that is the case, we hope this guide can help.
In December 2024 the national government released a white paper that set out plans for a simpler local government structure. By November 2025 West Berkshire and Oxfordshire had proposed three models which had been consulted on by local authorities, organisations, and residents.
In July 2026 the government announced their decision to make plans for the Three Council proposal to go through. This would mean elections in May 2027, and the new councils would be in place in April 2028. The three-council option includes a new Northern Oxfordshire, Greater Oxford and Ridgeway Council which includes West Berkshire.
On Monday 7th September the government announced a pause on this decision, with elections to these new authorities being pushed back a year.
As the weeks move on, we hope to hear from central government what the next steps on this process will be. We know this may worry charities and other groups, and we want to ensure that we work in partnership not only to continue offering support, but to ensure that the voice of the voluntary, charity and community sector is heard.
If you would like to share your thoughts, questions or concerns please complete our Microsoft form, please note this form is for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire and contents will be shared across our four infrastructure organisations.
Community First Oxfordshire
Connecting Communities in Berkshire
Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action
Volunteer Centre West Berkshire
Connecting Communities in Berkshire 