STRATFORD District Council is set to discuss a report drawn up on future plans for local government.
Members of SDC’s cabinet will meet on Monday (July 7) to consider the report by audit and assurance specialist Deloitte.
It has been put together on behalf of SDC alongside the other Warwickshire district and borough councils and includes a wide range of proposals on devolution, but also wider plans for local government reorganisation.
All of Warwickshire’s district and borough councils along with Warwickshire County Council will be affected by the plans set out in the government’s English Devolution White Paper to devolve power from Westminster to local areas and reform local government.
The Deloitte report evaluated the two proposals identified by SDC in March as their preferred options.
These are a single unitary council for the county or two unitary councils – one for North Warwickshire, Nuneaton and Bedworth, and Rugby boroughs, and another for Warwick and Stratford districts.
Deloitte concluded a two-unitary model the most advantageous structure for Warwickshire.
The report says it would: “Effectively balance the preservation of local identities with the need for efficient and responsive governance.
“This model holds significant potential for recognizing and respecting the distinct identities that characterise the county acknowledges the existing cultural and economic disparities and allows for tailored policies and initiatives.
“This localised approach fosters a stronger sense of local ownership and belonging.
“Furthermore, two smaller unitary authorities would be closer to the communities they serve, facilitating a greater understanding of local issues and providing more accessible channels for citizen engagement.
“This proximity fosters a heightened sense of accountability to local needs and priorities.”
Cabinet’s preferred option for local government reorganisation will be passed on to a meeting of the full council on July 14.
All the other authorities in Warwickshire will now work through their own democratic process to determine the option that is supported locally, with the option to be refined over the summer.
SDC’s cabinet and full council will be asked to make a final decision in November.
