Devolution and Local Government Reform in Oxfordshire and beyond

Our final OBS2026 Impact Session focused on the future governance of Oxfordshire, bringing together business leaders, council officials and policymakers to explore opportunities for regional growth and development.

Held at the offices of OBS2026 sponsors Blake Morgan, this timely session examined devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) at an important time for Oxfordshire. Discussions focused on the importance of understanding how changing administrative structures will impact businesses, communities and the region’s future.

As hosts, Penny Rinta-Suksi, Partner at Blake Morgan, welcomed guests and kick-started the event with an opening address and overview of the LGR through a legal lens.

This was then followed by:

1. Local Government Reorganisation: The Options

Cllr Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council

Cllr Leffman outlined the Government’s proposals for reorganising local government in Oxfordshire, setting out three possible Unitary Authority models.

The County Council’s preferred option is a single Unitary Authority for Oxfordshire, bringing services together under one council. This approach is expected to deliver £63m in annual savings, make services easier to access for residents and businesses through a “one‑door” model, protect vital services, and give Oxfordshire a stronger, unified voice in future devolution discussions.

Alternative models were also explored. A two‑unitary option would involve cross‑boundary mergers with Berkshire, while a three‑unitary option would centre on a Greater Oxford Development Corporation. Both were noted as carrying greater complexity, higher risk and more fragmented governance arrangements.

2. What Devolution Would Look Like in Practice

Kim Sawyer, Programme Director for Devolution, Oxfordshire County Council

Kim explained how devolution could work in practice, drawing on examples from established mayoral regions such as Manchester and Liverpool.

A key proposal is the potential creation of a Thames Valley Mayoral Authority, covering Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Swindon. If agreed, this would be introduced between 2028 and 2029 and could position the Thames Valley as a leading economic region alongside London and Manchester.

Kim highlighted the benefits of mayoral leadership, including clearer accountability, stronger influence with Government, better coordination across sectors, and the ability to plan for the long term beyond electoral cycles. Devolution could also support significant economic growth across the region.

3. Opportunities for Oxfordshire and the Wider Region

Helen Mitchell, Programme Director for Local Government Reorganisation, Oxfordshire County Council

Helen focused on the opportunities that reform and devolution could unlock for Oxfordshire.

She highlighted the growing importance of the Oxford–Cambridge Corridor, where Government funding has recently been doubled to support innovation space, transport connectivity, employment growth and business development.

Helen also discussed the potential role of the Greater Oxford Development Corporation, inspired by large‑scale regeneration models such as Canary Wharf and the London Olympics. With enhanced planning powers, it could help accelerate development and investment across the region.

In addition, she referenced a new Memorandum of Understanding between Oxford and Liverpool councils and universities, demonstrating a shared commitment to innovation, research‑industry collaboration and the UK’s industrial strategy.

4. What This Means for Business

Businesses attending the session highlighted the need for clear leadership, long‑term vision and greater certainty.

Key themes included:

· Improving infrastructure and transport integration

· Tackling housing affordability

· Better aligning skills and employment

· Strengthening support for small businesses

A more unified and strategic regional structure was seen as a way to address these challenges more effectively and at scale.

5. Looking Ahead and Next Steps

Plans for Local Government Reorganisation and devolution are now moving into the next phase. Councils have submitted proposals to Government, and the focus is shifting to public engagement, consultation and refining the final approach.

Over the coming months, residents, businesses and community organisations will have opportunities to share their views through formal consultation. Feedback will play a key role in shaping final decisions on Oxfordshire’s future governance.

The session also underlined the importance of early involvement from businesses and partners, particularly around planning, transport, skills and housing. This work will help ensure future arrangements support economic growth, public services and local communities.

The Oxfordshire Business Summit at Blenheim Palace on 15th May 2026 will be an important milestone, offering a further opportunity to hear updates, ask questions and continue the conversation. In parallel, councils will explore pilot projects and innovation initiatives, helping turn ideas into practical action.

Together, these next steps will shape how Oxfordshire is governed in the years ahead. Continued engagement from residents, businesses, universities and communities will be essential to delivering clear benefits and supporting a shared vision for the region’s future.