How we began

Created in 1974 under one of the most significant Acts of Parliament in modern local government, Cotswold District Council has served its communities for more than five decades.

The Local Government Act 1972 introduced a new two‑tier system of government, aimed at improving efficiency and better reflecting modern urban and rural development. In the Cotswolds, this brought towns and villages across the district together under a single authority.

Cirencester Urban District Council, Cirencester Rural District Council, North Cotswold Rural District Council, Tetbury Rural District Council and Northleach Rural District Council merged to form what we now know as Cotswold District Council. 

On 1 April 1974, the Council was officially established, with Councillor D. C. Leadbeater appointed as its first Chair. 

In 1978, the Council acquired the Trinity Road site to refurbish as its headquarters. Formerly a Victorian workhouse and later Watermoor Hospital, the building was converted into council offices and formally opened to staff by Prince Charles in 1981.

More than 50 years later, local government is changing again. Gloucestershire is entering another period of reorganisation, which will see the district and county councils replaced by new unitary authorities. 

As this transition approaches, Lasting Legacy provides an opportunity to reflect on Cotswold District Council’s achievements and celebrate the contribution it has made to the district and its communities.