The Local Government Minister, John Healey MP, has announced the results of the Government's consultation on the future of local government in Cheshire.

In place of the current two-tier system of a County Council and six Districts, the Government is minded to create just two unitary Councils in Cheshire one in the west (covering Chester, Ellesmere Port and Vale Royal) and one in the east (covering Crewe and Nantwich, Congleton and Macclesfield).   The new Councils would provide all local government services, although Police and Fire services would straddle the boundaries.

 

Commenting on the outcome of the review, Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council's Chief Executive, Paul Ancell said:  "The Government's conclusions have come as a surprise as we consider that the two unitary solution failed to meet all the Government's own criteria for judging the suitability of the proposals.  In particular, public support was very low indeed and way behind the support expressed for this Council's call to retain and improve the present arrangements.  It is noted that the Government has expressed concerns regarding the affordability of the two Council proposal and is seeking further information.  Clearly, Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council will need to look carefully at the implications of the announcement and consider the best way forward for the people of the Borough, the Council and its staff."

 

More information on the announcement can be obtained from the Department for Communities and Local Government website:  http://www.communities.gov.uk/

 

COUNCIL CONTACT:                   Paul Ancell Chief Executive

                                                   Telephone 01270 537550

                                                  

For Media enquiries contact:         Ian Richardson - 01270 537018