The future of local government at the district level for Kenilworth remains in the balance as ongoing merger talks continue between Stratford-on-Avon District Council and the town's current local body Warwick District Council.

SDC and WDC are moving towards the next step: 'To create a single statutory South Warwickshire Council covering all of the activities currently carried out by Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council by 2024.'

Next week, both councils will be making important decisions on the future shape and delivery of council services in south Warwickshire, with questions to be debated at WDC's Executive meeting on February 11.

Cllr Andrew Day, Leader of Warwick District Council said: "Out of crisis often comes opportunity. Our two councils have much in common and working together we've been able to respond positively to the pandemic.

"The local Recovery Plan will be strengthened if councillors decide to take this historic step, giving an opportunity to improve local government services across south Warwickshire, generating greater value for our residents and taxpayers.† 

A report by Deloitte will be presented to Warwick District Council's Executive on Thursday 11 February, where members will be discussing the future relationship between the two councils, before final recommendations go to full council on Wednesday 24 February.

The options for The Executive are as follows:

1. To receive or to reject the Deloitte report "Creating a South Warwickshire Council".
2. To either support the principle of pursuing further integration between Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council to the point of a full merger of the organisations.
3. Subject to option two:

• For the Chief Executive to develop proposals for a full merger between Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council in order to create a South Warwickshire Council.
• That the sum of £100,000 pa for the period 2021/22 to 2023/24 be provided to ensure that there is sufficient programme management support the guide the Council through this the transition to a full merger.

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council says "The Covid-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on our communities and the council.

"The Deloitte report clearly identifies that there are significant benefits from our two authorities continuing to integrate; without this there would be even more very challenging decisions required from both authorities.

"Without doubt, this is one of the most significant issues in the history of the district council."

Stratford-on- Avon District Council will be discussing the report at their cabinet meeting on Tuesday 9 February before going before its full council on Monday 22 February. The recommendations are the same.

The councils already share two management roles - Head of Neighbourhood/Community & Operational Services and Head of ICT and wider integration of both management teams is expected during 2021.

Work has also started on the production of joint local plan and a joint procurement process has started for a joint refuse and recycling contract.