THE leader of Forest of Dean District Council has said the Government's decision to pause local government reorganisation in Gloucestershire has created uncertainty over what happens next.

Cllr Adrian Birch said the authority was seeking further information about the review and what it could mean for councils, residents and staff across the county.

The Government announced last week that local government reorganisation proposals affecting Gloucestershire would be paused while a review is undertaken.

Forest of Dean District Council had opposed the proposal submitted for Gloucestershire, despite supporting the wider principle of devolution.

Cllr Birch said: "Throughout this process, Forest of Dean District Council has been clear and consistent in its position.

"While we support the principle of devolution and recognise the opportunities it can bring, the council did not support the proposal submitted for Gloucestershire because we did not believe it reflected the views expressed by many people in the Forest of Dean or demonstrated that it was the best outcome for our communities."

He said the Forest's "strong identity and unique character" had been central to the council's position, with residents concerned that local decision-making should remain connected to communities.

Councils across Gloucestershire have spent recent months working on potential changes to the structure of local government, although authorities have disagreed over the preferred model.

Cllr Birch said those differences had not prevented councils from working together and said relationships between the authorities would remain important whatever happened next.

He added: "We share many opportunities and challenges across Gloucestershire, and I am committed to continuing to work closely with council leaders, partners and Government as we seek greater clarity on the future of local government in the county."

Cllr Birch said the council would meanwhile remain focused on delivering services and ensuring the Forest of Dean's voice continued to be heard.