Lib Dems back north and south unitary approach after consultation with residents

Liberal Democrat councillors in Worcestershire are backing the proposals to replace the seven district, borough, city and county councils with two unitary authorities after consultation with residents revealed this was their preferred outcome. Five of the district councils are voting on whether to pursue a North and South unitary structure or a whole county this week. The county council has a similar vote next week (11th September) after the Liberal Democrat group tabled a motion to the council. 

The survey, part of the Shape Worcestershire project, which five local authorities in Worcestershire are currently undertaking, revealed that 48% of residents backed a two-unitary approach, 29% supported a one-unitary approach, and 19% didn’t support reorganisation.

Last year, the government announced plans to abolish two-tier areas in favour of creating unitary authorities across the country. Whilst population restrictions of 500,000 were initially suggested as the minimum for any proposed unitary authority, the government has since stated that these are recommendations, and areas can put forth alternatives with justification.

Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Worcestershire County Council, Cllr Dan Boatright-Greene, says: “The Shape Worcestershire survey has provided a real insight into the views of Worcestershire residents. It is very clear that a two-unitary council approach is their preferred option. When knocking on doors, we are hearing the same, with residents wanting the balance between streamlining council services and keeping representation local.

“As Liberal Democrats, we have always put community representation at the heart of our policies. It is very clear that residents feel similarly. A South Worcestershire approach in my own area would make sense, given that many services are already shared with Malvern Hills. In the North, Redditch and Bromsgrove also share services. We need to move forward in a positive way that balances our own distinct county identity, but also the differences between the north and south of the county.”