Local government in Gloucestershire could soon consist of one 'Greater Gloucester' council and a 'doughnut' authority made up of the surrounding districts, with a new viability report concluding the proposal is 'compelling and compliant' with government criteria. This week, Gloucester City Council's cabinet reviewed a report on a viability assessment of the Greater Gloucester option, which was commissioned by the council and carried out by an external consultancy. The report says this indicates 'a disproportionate level of need that the model is well-positioned to address'. Leader of the city council, Jeremy Hilton said: 'Gloucester City Council and its partners across the county remain committed to ensuring that any reorganisation delivers improved services, stronger local leadership and better outcomes for residents across Gloucestershire. The report is due to be discussed by full council on Thursday 18 September 2025.