Councillors back unitary authority plan for Worcestershire
News release issued:
An overwhelming majority of Wyre Forest District Council councillors have voted in favour of supporting the One Worcestershire proposal, which would see one unitary authority created following Local Government Reorganisation.
Under Government requirements for Local Government Reorganisation, Wyre Forest, the five other district, borough, and city councils and Worcestershire County Council will be abolished on 1 April 2028.
At a Special Council meeting on Wednesday 12 November, councillors considered two business cases for reorganisation:
One Worcestershire – a single council delivering all services across the county.
Two councils – one for the North and one for the South, each responsible for services in its area.
Councillors voted in favour of One Worcestershire, which was considered more cost-effective and less disruptive than creating two separate councils. It also avoids the additional expense and complexity of dividing key services such as children’s services and adult social care.
Both cases are expected to be submitted to the Government by Friday 28 November 2025.
Councillor Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council said,
“We didn’t ask for Local Government reorganisation, and we don’t want it. It is being imposed on us by the Government.
“If it is going ahead, we want the best deal for Wyre Forest residents. By supporting the One Worcestershire proposal, we are prioritising stronger accountability, better financial sustainability and less disruption for our residents. This decision by the council reflects our commitment to shaping a future that works for everyone across the county.
“The final decision on which option is implemented will rest with the Government and Parliament, following a period of formal consultation that the Government is expected to undertake in early 2026.”
A recording of the Special Council meeting can be viewed online on the Council's website. The One Worcestershire proposal can be downloaded from the Council’s Local Government Reorganisation webpage.