Plans for a 'super district' to be formed by a merger between Warwick District Council and Stratford District Council have taken a step forward after the executive of WDC approved plans for discussions to continue.

Tonight's (February 11) executive meeting approved recommendations for the proposed district merger to continue as the two councils continue to work together.

Council leader Cllr Andrew Day (Con, Bishop's Tachbrook) said: "This is an extraordinary opportunity for us as councillors to shape a modern and agile local government for South Warwickshire for the next 50 or more years.

"It is a rare privilege we have as councillors to work together to share and create this new entity, and to meet the needs of today as well as the future."

The plans hope to see the full formation of a South Warwickshire District Council by April 1 2024, subject to approval by the full councils as well as the UK Government.

SDC's cabinet members had already approved plans to work alongside their colleagues in Warwick after approving similar plans at their meeting on Tuesday, February 9.

Council leader Cllr Tony Jefferson (Con, Welcombe) told that meeting that, in his view, joining forces was the best option for residents.

He said: "The fundamental issue in a changing and increasingly challenging world where reorganisation of local government is on the agenda is what is the most sustainable option for our residents? 

"In my view, combining with Warwick District Council offers the best option for our residents and the best option for our residents should be the most important criteria for making the decision."

He explained that, if both councils agreed, work could start on a formal submission to the Secretary of State but added that there would be full consultation with the public and stakeholders including the county council.

The matter will need to be discussed further by the full council of each district council before any submissions to Government are made.