đźš« Bridgend Council Shuts Down Reform Plans! đźš«
Big news in Bridgend as the local council has given a firm “no” to plans that could have shaken up the area’s town and community councils! 🌟 The proposal was all about merging and possibly abolishing smaller councils, requiring at least 5,000 registered voters in each. Imagine going from 20 local councils down to just 13!
Council Leader Cllr John Spanswick asked the big question: Is this the best way to fix any gaps in our local democracy? 🤔 The vote was unanimous against the idea, with many councillors agreeing that erasing smaller councils was NOT the way to improve connection with the community.
Some believed that merging for the “greater good” could be a positive move, but others like Cllr Martin Williams were disappointed, finding many of the plans confusing. Cllr Alex Williams also brought up an interesting point about the potential financial costs if the proposal didn’t pass.đź’·
But the battle might not be over yet! If the council doesn’t push forward with a revised plan, the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales might step in by 2032 to make changes anyway.
Councillor Ian Spiller highlighted a consultation that was supposed to reflect residents’ voices, making this rejection a significant statement. While some accept the need for changes, no one wants decisions forced without local input. 🗣️
Here’s hoping for a plan that keeps our community strong and our voices heard. What do you think about these changes? Should smaller councils stay or go? Share your thoughts below! 👇
#Bridgend #LocalDemocracy #CommunityFirst #CouncilNews