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Bromsgrove: Local Government
07 January 2026
Lead MP
Bradley Thomas
Bromsgrove
Con
Responding Minister
Alison McGovern
Tags
Economy
Word Count: 3637
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Bradley Thomas raised concerns about bromsgrove: local government in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The creation of a single unitary authority is proposed as the best option to protect Worcestershire’s integrity, strengthen governance, and secure long-term prosperity. This would ensure local democracy remains intact and decisions continue to reflect the needs and values of rural constituents.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The reorganisation of Worcestershire councils will be the largest local government reshuffle in more than 50 years. The current proposal risks pushing parts of the county, particularly rural areas like Bromsgrove, into becoming extensions of urban cities, potentially sacrificing the unique rural character and identity that defines these communities.
Bradley Thomas
Con
Bromsgrove
Agrees with Mark Garnier's point, emphasizing the profound cost implications of splitting into two councils. Quoted figures indicate significant financial pressures and service demands under this model.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Supports the idea that consolidation can be worthwhile but not at the expense of accessibility. Emphasises the importance of ensuring services remain accessible in rural areas like his own constituency.
Mark Garnier
Con
Wyre Forest
Highlights concerns about a potential north-south divide, where Wyre Forest and other northern parts of Worcestershire could be subsumed under Birmingham. Notes that only one district council advocated for a single unitary authority. Points out the high costs of dividing county-wide services and suggests that these costs would be unnecessary if there were only one authority.
Government Response
Alison McGovern
The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the arguments presented by the hon. Member for Bromsgrove and confirmed that colleagues in the Department will review his points. She highlighted the reasons behind reorganising local government to streamline services, drive economic growth, and empower communities. The Government aims to deliver unitary local government across England within this Parliament, with consultations on proposals from Worcestershire expected in early February.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.