Local Government Review (LGR) – This certainly isn’t the update I was expecting to give you! Following the change of Prime Minister and as a result of several applications for a Judicial Review by other councils, the government has decided to ‘put on hold’ plans for LGR in 14 areas including Gloucestershire. The previous ambitious timescales mean there is no chance that any changes will be made before local elections in May, so instead of choosing councillors for a new county wide administration, the elections will be for Cotswold District Council – which was due to be abolished in 2028. Confused? I’m not surprised!
Preparations for the LGR changes have put an enormous strain on the officers throughout the county and have come at a huge financial cost. It also means more uncertainty for the public and will be of particular concern for employees – we are now left not knowing what will happen beyond 2028. If the plans are resurrected it could mean another election at a cost of around £250k just in the CDC area alone, in addition to ramping up the programme of work to make it happen.
I’ve asked the council leader to claim back the costs incurred from the government – it might at least deter them from launching ill thought out initiatives that cost us millions!
The Electoral Matters Working Group has considered a review of polling stations, and a report will be presented to Council on 23 September with proposals for change to be consulted on. Every polling station needs a Presiding Officer and Poll Clerk, along with the necessary stationery and equipment to run the poll effectively. Other costs include building hire and delivery/collection of polling screens. The aim of the changes is to make savings and improve efficiency while still ensuring polling places remain convenient for electors. The proposed changes in Grumbolds Ash are:
Please let me know your thoughts.
Councillor Tony Slater
Cotswold District Council, Representing Grumbolds Ash with Avening.
email: Tony.slater@cotswold.gov.uk Tel: 07793669930