Local voice and representation – What role for town and parish councils in reform?
As local government reorganisation (LGR) and devolution continue to gather momentum, the Government has made it clear that it does not expect these reforms to result in the creation of new town or parish councils.
But many communities feel differently.
In Emsworth on the south coast, more than 70 residents recently came together in support of forming a new town council. One of the driving factors? A desire to take ownership of local assets, such as the town’s sports pavilion, which urgently needs repair.
Their concern is a familiar one: that a larger unitary authority, focused on strategic services and major reform, may not have the capacity or local insight to prioritise issues that matter most to communities on the ground.
A similar campaign is underway on Hayling Island, where the residents' association is actively lobbying for a new town council. Their goal is to secure a statutory local voice; one that can influence decision-making within any future governance structure.
These examples highlight a growing tension at the heart of reform: how to strike the right balance between efficient, sustainable service delivery and meaningful local representation.
As proposals for new unitary authorities develop, and regions explore how devolution can empower regional growth, it’s essential that the role of community governance isn’t treated as an afterthought.
Whether or not new parish or town councils are ultimately created, the call for stronger local voice is one that policymakers and local leaders will need to reckon with.
Preparing for local reform?
From governance models to funding and community voice, the pace of change is accelerating. Get in touch with Mark Heath in our Government & Public Services to discuss how we can support your organisation in navigating Local Government Reorganisation and the wider devolution agenda.
