Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
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What is local government reorganisation?
The government wants to make local councils simpler. The proposal affects two-tier councils, such as:
- county councils
- district councils
The government wants to replace these with new, larger councils (called unitary authorities) that run all local services.
What LGR means for Reading
Reading is already a unitary authority, so we are not part of the first phase of the government’s reorganisation plans. The government is currently focussing on replacing two-tier councils with unitary authorities.
Because of this, our neighbours in Oxfordshire are proposing changes. In March 2025, they sent early proposals to the government to create new unitary authorities. These would replace:
- Oxfordshire County Council
- Cherwell District Council
- Oxford City Council
- South Oxfordshire District Council
- Vale of White Horse District Council
- West Oxfordshire District Council
Two of their proposals includes the creation of a unitary authority called ‘Ridgeway’ which includes (and replaces) our close neighbour West Berkshire Council. This means that areas of Tilehurst currently in West Berkshire would become part of the new Ridgeway Council.
The government will review the proposals and decide which ones to take forward for public consultation. This is expected to happen in early to mid 2026.
Reading Borough Council’s response
As a result, the council has submitted a request to government to change the boundary between Reading and West Berkshire.
We formally confirmed our position with a report to the council on 25 November 2025.
If the government agrees to create a new ‘Ridgeway’ Council, our request is that the wards of Tilehurst Birch Copse, Tilehurst & Purley, and Tilehurst South & Holybrook move into Reading.
This request is based on detailed analysis and public engagement. The evidence shows that this change would better meet the government’s criteria for reorganisation and has support from residents.
Proposed area covered by the Ridgeway Council
Proposed extension of the Reading Borough boundary in blue. Pangbourne and Theale are shown in dark green, both of which were considered in the council’s proposal.
What is devolution, and what does it mean for Reading?
Devolution means more decisions and funding could be managed locally, instead of by central government in London.
The government is encouraging councils to form strategic authorities. These are groups of councils working together across a wider area, with an elected mayor to lead. These authorities cover at least 1.5 million residents. Berkshire does not have a big enough population to be a strategic authority on its own.
On 25 November 2025, councils across the Thames Valley approved an expression of interest to be submitted to government. It explores how creating a Mayoral Strategic Authority could bring bring new powers and funding to support housing (including social housing), transport, skills and local growth.
Frequently asked questions
Will residents in West Berkshire be asked for their views on Reading’s proposed boundary change?
Reading Borough Council held six in-person events where the Leader and Deputy Leader spoke with residents and answered questions about our boundary proposal.
We also ran an open resident survey which heard views from over 1,000 residents. We also asked an independent market research company to carry out a survey of a representative sample of people living in the West Berkshire wards being considered.
Other councils, including West Berkshire and Oxfordshire, ran their own consultations on the wider reorganisation proposals.
In addition to the engagement being led by local councils, the government will carry out a public consultation before any reorganisation proposals are put in place.
Have the boundary changes been discussed with Oxfordshire?
The leader of Reading Borough Council, Councillor Liz Terry, has met with the leaders of West Berkshire, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Council’s to discuss our proposals.
If the changes are approved, will the council’s name change?
There is no intention to change the name. We will remain Reading Borough Council.
Why isn’t the council proposing changes to the boundaries with South Oxfordshire or Wokingham?
We’re only proposing this change because West Berkshire is planning to merge with South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils. This would mean West Berkshire Council no longer exists.
Given how closely some areas of West Berkshire are connected to Reading, we believe a boundary change should be considered.
There are stronger transport, economic and service links along Reading’s western edge, making a strong case for change.
These are the wards being considered:
How would the boundary changes affect the political balance of Reading Borough Council?
The current councillors for the proposed wards are:
What does the proposed boundary change mean for Reading residents?
If the proposal is approved and put into effect, Reading Borough Council would cover a larger area and provide services to the new wards as well as the current ones.
We believe this could improve services, especially in the western areas where the current boundary splits communities.
Will my council tax go down if I currently pay Reading Council tax?
When local government reorganisation happens, council tax rates are gradually made the same across all areas.
If the boundary change is approved, this process will also happen in Reading.
Last updated on 08/12/2025
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)