The area, famed for its pretty villages and countryside, is currently recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

But plans will be considered which could give it a new status, with statutory powers to make its own decisions.

Instead of the Cotswolds AONB Partnership, it will be known as the Cotswolds Conservation Board.

Cotswolds AONB Partnership Director Mark Lane said: "Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are something of a Cinderella compared with the National Parks.

"The conservation board will certainly help to redress that balance and get things on a more level playing field."

However, a spokeswoman for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said: "A conservation board is one way of managing an AONB and is not related to its protected landscape status.

"Defra does not regard AONBs as 'Cinderellas' compared with National Parks - they are of equal landscape protection status."

Officials from Defra will consult local authorities before making a decision on whether to approve a new board on 12 March.