In response to the interim proposals for Local Government Reorganisation submitted by Suffolk’s councils, the Government have now provided their feedback. In a joint statement Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk District Council and West Suffolk Council said:
“We have just received the Government’s response which supports us moving our proposals forward. We will be looking through the feedback in detail to ensure the final proposals we submit in September not only meet the guidance set by Government, but crucially provide better outcomes for our communities.
“Multiple unitaries are vital in order to keep councils truly local to the people they serve and to meet the differing needs and aspirations of our county’s diverse communities. Providing a locally based unitary authority big enough to deliver but small enough to care.
“We will be sharing further information over coming days, including details of public consultation, as we believe the views of our residents, businesses and communities should be at the heart of any future plans produced.”
The interim report submitted to Government by the borough and district councils said creating multiple unitary authorities for Suffolk would achieve greater outcomes for residents, grow the economy and provide flexible solutions to meet the needs of local communities – in a way that a single mega-council covering a vast geographical area would fail to do.
Multi-unitary authorities will provide:
- localism and neighbourhood delivery
- cost effective and high-quality services for Suffolk residents
- long term financial sustainability
- economic growth and support to local industry
- stronger democratic representation, community engagement and neighbourhood empowerment
- governance and support systems which can adapt to future aspirations and sustainable growth
- ambitions to drive progress, innovation, and long-term success
- structures to support and enable thriving communities and economies.
Multiple unitary authorities would ensure strong democratic representation, whereas one council would be too remote for residents to be heard. It offers the best solution to ensure decision-makers and the communities they represent remain at the heart of local government and guarantees that services are designed and delivered in a tailored way, built on local knowledge. Resulting in both value for money and better outcomes.
A multiple unitary model also offers a balanced approach to the governance of the Norfolk and Suffolk Mayoral Combined Authority, ensuring fair representation for Suffolk residents.
Issued on behalf of:
Babergh District Council
East Suffolk Council
Ipswich Borough Council
Mid Suffolk District Council
West Suffolk Council