Councils in Warwickshire today formally submitted their proposal to Government for the creation of two new unitary councils for the county.
The two-unitary proposal is supported by Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, North Warwickshire Borough Council, Stratford-on-Avon District Council, and Warwick District Council.
The proposal has strong public support and is backed cross-party by five of Warwickshire’s six Members of Parliament.
The submission follows the Government’s invitation to bring forward options for Local Government Reorganisation. Extensive analysis and engagement with residents, partners and local organisations has led the councils to conclude that a two unitary model best reflects the diverse identities, priorities and economies across Warwickshire.
An independent survey carried out by ORS found that 73 per cent of residents support the creation of two unitary councils rather than just one new council. Under the proposal, the new councils would be:
North Warwickshire Unitary
- Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, North Warwickshire Borough Council, and Rugby Borough Council
South Warwickshire Unitary
- Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council
The two-unitary proposal provides a balanced, future facing model that is simple, strong and sustainable. It recognises that the north and the south are distinct places with different priorities. The new councils would have the scale to be financially resilient and the focus to deliver better services, stronger governance and improved outcomes.
The proposal sets out how the two unitaries would strengthen local identity and democratic accountability, remain close to communities and enable more responsive public services. It also highlights clear alignment with existing public service footprints, including NHS partnerships and policing, which already operate on a north and south split.
Both new authorities would continue to work closely with the West Midlands Combined Authority. Warwickshire councils already collaborate with the Combined Authority on transport, regeneration and economic development, and the mayor has recognised the benefits of a model that reflects the county’s two distinct areas.
Cllr Chris Watkins, Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said:
“We believe two unitary authorities gives Warwickshire the best chance to thrive.
“The needs of the north and south of the county are different, and a single unitary authority would struggle to give each area the focus and attention it deserves.
“By proposing two unitary authorities in Warwickshire, we’re choosing a model that protects local identity while delivering services that are closer, more responsive, and better tailored to our communities.”
To view the submission document, visit the Shaping the future of our Councils website.