Changes to local government in Gloucestershire: what tenants need to know

The government has announced that from 1 April 2028, Gloucestershire will move to a single unitary council. This will replace Gloucestershire County Council and all six district and borough councils including the Forest of Dean District Council.

What’s changing?

At the moment, different councils in Gloucestershire are responsible for different services. The government has decided that these councils will be replaced by one new unitary council for the whole county.

It believes this is the best option to support economic growth, deliver joined-up public services, and create a platform for community empowerment.

What does this mean for you?

There are no immediate changes – you can continue to access services through your local council as normal. But over the next few months, all seven councils will come together to understand the details and plan for the changes.

If you use council services, such as waste collection, council tax, benefits, planning or social care, keep using the same council contacts and websites you use now.

Any future changes will be shared by the councils as the process develops.

What it means for Two Rivers Housing

As an independent housing association, we will continue to deliver strong customer and community focussed services. However, we recognise that our local authority partners will be facing a period of significant change.

Like them, we are committed to supporting the people and communities we serve in the Forest of Dean and across Gloucestershire. We’ll continue to work closely with everyone involved as these changes are implemented and support them to deliver the best results for the thousands of families living in our communities.   

Where to find more information

You can read more about the government’s decision and what happens next on the Future Gloucestershire website. Future Gloucestershire : Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation in Gloucestershire.