Decision Maker: County Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: October 14, 2025

Purpose: For Council to comment on outline final proposals for unitary local government for Warwickshire to inform Cabinet's submission to Government

Content: 1.        This Council recommends that in making its decision on the final submission to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Cabinet takes into account:   That the Council recognises the importance of Town and Parish Councils, supports the establishment of such councils where they do not currently exist (e.g, Nuneaton, Rugby, Bedworth, Bulkington), and endorses the role of Town and Parish Councils as a necessary means of preserving local identity along with the devolution of roles and powers to such councils where there is an appetite to do so.   2.        This Council recommends that in making its decision on the final submission to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Cabinet takes into account:   That the Council accepts that full constituent membership of the West Midlands Combined Authority would be the best arrangement for any new unitary authority or authorities in Warwickshire to meet the Government’s requirement of full devolution.    3.        This Council recommends that in making its decision on the final submission to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Cabinet takes into account:   That the Council supports the proposal of a single unitary council for Warwickshire as the optimum model of local governance.