February Update from the Leader and Chief Executive of WDC

Dear Friends

We know that the government has outlined its intention to create strategic authorities covering large areas to which it will devolve powers and funding, involving an elected Mayor and that all two-tier areas such as ours (with district and borough councils) should develop proposals for reorganisation to unitary authorities.

This week we have been advised that Warwickshire will not be included in the initial group of Councils for devolution, which means that we will be running the County Council elections as planned on 1 May.

We have made it our priority to open a broad dialogue with our neighbouring Councils and other relevant stakeholders so that we can collectively determine the best way forward to meet the future needs of our local communities and achieve the ‘efficiencies’ that are being sought.

At an additional full Council meeting held on 30 January a motion was agreed to endorse working with other Councils across Warwickshire to review options for unitary status which must consider protecting services as our top priority along with our geography, demographics and relationship with our neighbours. In our opinion, these changes should only be progressed once there is significant local agreement.
In addition, the motion asked for dialogue with all Councils that have a border with south Warwickshire to consider possible strategic authorities.

In the meantime, it’s vital that we get on with the important job of delivering key services for our residents.
Giving local people the opportunity to have their say on things that matter to them is an integral part of what we do. The past month has been no exception with the launch of three public consultations:

The South Warwickshire Local Plan Preferred Options Consultation will run until Friday 7 March. This is a chance for residents, businesses and other stakeholders to give their feedback on the next stage of the new Local Plan, which will includes considering which of 36 locations are most suitable for housing and employment growth across South Warwickshire.

We’re also reviewing our current Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and considering options for creating new ones, with residents invited to take part in this process. These PSPOs ensure public spaces can be enjoyed by the community, free from anti-social behaviour. These regulations enable us to deal with persistent issues that are damaging the community, the current orders cover dog control and dog fouling and intoxicating substance zones. Members of the public are encouraged to complete a PSPO online survey which will be available on our website until Sunday 9 March.

At the same time, locals can share their views on the facilities at St Nicholas Park in Warwick and what changes they’d like to see; the results will be used to shape the future development of one of Warwick’s most popular parks. Residents have until 28 February to complete an online survey.

You can visit the link Current consultations – Online consultations – Warwick District Council. for further details.

Have a great weekend and we look forward to catching up next month when we will be bringing you news of our budget plans.
Cllr Ian Davison, Leader
Chris Elliott, Chief Executive