DIVISION remains in Warwickshire over local government reorganisation after two different proposals were officially submitted to the Government.
A two-unitary proposal has been submitted by Stratford District Council, Warwick District Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and North Warwickshire Borough Council.
But Warwickshire County Council has officially filed its support for a single unitary council for the whole county.
Rugby Borough Council has also indicated its support for the single council model, with bases in all major towns.
Meanwhile, 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.
The submissions follow the Government’s invitation to bring forward options for Local Government Reorganisation.
Under the two unitary proposal, the new councils would be North Warwickshire Unitary – North Warwickshire Borough Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and Rugby Borough Council, and South Warwickshire Unitary – Stratford District Council and Warwick District Council.
SDC leader Coun Susan Juned said: “Maintaining a local link to all our communities is extremely important. Public service and engagement must remain at the heart of local government, and this proposal ensures that principle is upheld.
“Our councils have worked together in a constructive and forward-thinking way to identify a model that delivers the best outcomes for residents. The two-unitary approach reflects the distinct identities of north and south Warwickshire while providing the scale and resilience needed for strong, sustainable services.
“It is a future-focused solution backed by public, political and parliamentary support, and we are pleased to submit it to Government as part of the national programme for local government reform.”
WDC leader Coun Ian Davison continued: “Our councils have worked constructively and collaboratively to identify the option that delivers the best outcomes for our communities. The two unitary model respects the real identities between north and south Warwickshire while ensuring both areas have the scale, resilience and strategic capacity to deliver excellent services.”
The WCC proposal for a single unitary authority received the support of the full council in October.
WCC leader Coun George Finch explained: “A single unitary offers the strongest financial foundation, ensures consistent and high-quality services for all residents, and empowers local decision-making keeping us rooted in the places we serve. And we are confident that it is the only option which meets all six Government criteria for LGR.
“A single unitary council for Warwickshire provides a single, consistent vision for the county, helping us to deliver stronger communities, better services and real value for money.”
