Stoke-on-Trent council backs a North Staffordshire ‘super council’, dismissing ‘power grab’ claims from rivals.
Council members voted to adopt this idea. They think it will save money and could also give the area more power. The government wants plans by March 21. Final plans are due in November.
Some Newcastle and Moorlands Tories dislike the plan. They call it a “power grab” by Stoke. Stoke-on-Trent Tories like the general idea; however, they abstained from the vote because they want to make the plan better.
A group will work on the plan further. It will include members from different parties before the November deadline.
Jane Ashworth leads the council and wants to get rid of the four current councils. She believes a single council would be more effective and would meet government requirements.
She said people often travel between these three areas and need an integrated travel network. She wants to create a stronger voice for the region.
Ashworth said local identity is important and local councils could give people a voice. She does not want to undermine people’s identity.
Dan Jellyman leads the Conservative group and is mostly in favor of the new council. However, he thinks a stronger case can be made.
He says people worry about losing their identity, and he thinks the plan needs improvement. For example, the city already helps other councils, and he hopes the final plan will be strong and should serve all residents.
Andy Platt discussed past reorganizations, such as how Stoke-on-Trent was formed. He said areas have connections. For instance, Talke is like Tunstall.
Ross Irving was first elected in 1973 and remembers that a North Staffordshire council was suggested. This was when Stoke became a unitary council.
Irving thinks it has merit and sees no better alternative. Concerns about identity must be discussed and the idea that Stoke is taking over is wrong.
Talks are ongoing. Staffordshire County Council has a different plan. It would leave Stoke-on-Trent alone.