West Berkshire set to join South Oxfordshire in new Ridgeway Council
The government has green lit the council merger, which officials claim will "streamline services" and allow greater investment in local communities
Last updated 16th Jul 2026
A new Ridgeway Council will come into existence on 1st April 2028, merging West Berkshire with most of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts into a unitary authority.
This announcement is part of a larger reorganisation effort across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire, reducing the current seven councils to three new unitary councils in a bid to streamline operations and enhance services.
Government Decision
The government has opted for a model that retains Oxford City as an independent entity rather than merging it with Northern Oxfordshire Council.
As a result, Ridgeway Council will have a slightly smaller geographical footprint than initially proposed. Nonetheless, the merger aims to create a robust authority equipped to protect and improve local services, draw investments, and address upcoming challenges, according to West Berkshire Council.
Council Support
West Berkshire Council has been a staunch advocate for the formation of Ridgeway Council, working alongside South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse to develop and promote the proposal.
The council expressed confidence that Ridgeway will unite communities with strong existing ties, stating that it "will bring together communities with strong existing links while creating a council with the scale, capacity and resilience needed to deliver excellent public services for generations to come."
Local Campaign
An effort from Reading Borough Council to shift three Tilehurst wards from West Berkshire under its control was thwarted, as no boundary changes were proposed. This decision was welcomed by West Berkshire Council, who believes this provides certainty and stability for Tilehurst residents.
Voices Heard
Councillor Jeff Brooks, Leader of West Berkshire Council, hailed the announcement as a major milestone. He said: "Today is a hugely significant and exciting day for West Berkshire and for the future of local government across our area. We are delighted that the Government has chosen one of the Ridgeway Council options and recognised the strength of the case we have made alongside our colleagues in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse."
Brooks acknowledged the disappointment faced by partner councils losing wards to the new Greater Oxford Council but saw it as an opportunity for growth and cooperation. He stated: "The new Ridgeway Council does create an exciting opportunity to build on the many strengths of West Berkshire, South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse."
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council said “Today is a historic day. This decision will shape the future of Oxford, Oxfordshire and West Berkshire for generations.
“Our proposal will simplify local government, save money and keep decision-making local, so each area can shape services around the specific needs of its residents and businesses.
“It means Witney and Banbury won’t be overshadowed by a focus on Oxford, while South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse can build a new future with West Berkshire, reflecting the history and connections they share.
“But this decision is also about tackling the housing crisis and creating well-paid, secure jobs.
“By focusing development around Oxford, rather than continuing the incremental expansion of towns and villages across rural Oxfordshire, we can deliver the homes people need while protecting more green space overall.
“Oxford has needed more room to grow for a generation. The government has listened, and from 1 April 2028 we will have a genuine opportunity to make Oxford and Oxfordshire more affordable for our children and grandchildren.”
Ongoing Plans
In November 2025, joint proposals from West Berkshire, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse, Cherwell, and West Oxfordshire were submitted to the government for the reorganisation. Statutory consultations began in February 2026, involving local stakeholders, residents, and businesses.
As preparations continue towards the April 2028 transition, councils are focused on maintaining uninterrupted services and maximizing the benefits brought by unitary councils.
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