Tewkesbury Borough Council is rescheduling the launch of its name change to North Gloucestershire Borough Council.

Originally set to take place this month, the name change will now happen in March, so the council can consider any impact from the anticipated government white paper on devolution.

The white paper, which was announced in the Budget in October, was expected by the end of November, but has still not been issued - meaning the council is unclear of any potential implications.

Cllr Richard Stanley, leader of Tewkesbury Borough Council, said: "The government's white paper is expected to outline its plans for devolution. There is uncertainty about how this may impact on the future role of district councils, and, depending on timescales, this could have significant implications for our move to change our name to North Gloucestershire Borough Council.

"When deciding to change our name, we made it clear that it would be done with a phased approach at a minimal cost. If the government's white paper mandates that Gloucestershire's local government structure requires reorganisation in the next two to three years, then we recognise that changing our name now would not be an efficient use of funds.

"When we have the details of the white paper and understand the implications for our council, we will update on our plans - with our current view being that we aim to launch our new name in March if there is no impact on us."

The council's decision to change its name originated from concerns raised about the outdated nature of the current logo, and the confusion between Tewkesbury town and the wider borough.

The name North Gloucestershire Borough Council was chosen as it more accurately represents the borough's geographic location and its many communities, and avoids prioritising Tewkesbury town over other areas.

Local businesses said the new name will help the borough raise its profile regionally and nationally, promoting economic development and attracting investment.