Laura Sharman 18 June 2015

Council chiefs warn over impact of proposed mergers

Council leaders have warned the proposed restructure of local government in Wales – which will see 22 local authorities cut down to eight or nine – will cause ‘disruption and distraction’ in the sector.

Responding to the publication of the reform map yesterday, the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) said changes would not occur until 2020 at the earliest, leaving councils with an ‘uncertain’ future.

The WLGA also blasted the Government for failing to address the issue of council tax harmonisation in the map.

Cllr Bob Wellington, leader of the WLGA, said: ‘The sustainability of authorities in Wales is in question over the next three years and it is time to examine all options for reforming public services across the board.

‘This means looking at greater integration of health and social care, freeing up authorities from Government bureaucracy and regulation and also empowering local communities through their councils.’

Research undertaken by CIPFA previously found local government reorganisation could cost up to £268m, taking three years to achieve annual savings of £65m.

‘You cannot make the same savings twice, there will be no scope for further savings from local government reorganisation in the aftermath of the next spending round, and there is certainly no clarity being offered on how the up-front costs of reorganisation will be funded,’ added Cllr Hugh Evans, independent group leader.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Registered Building Inspector (Band 2/Grade 7)

Health and Safety Executive
£60,760 - £65,776
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is transforming building safety regulation across England. United Kingdom / various Locations
Recuriter: Health and Safety Executive

Revenues and Recovery Team Leader

Ashfield District Council
£37,938 - £40,476 per annum (pay award pending)
We have an exciting opportunity for a Revenues and Recovery Team Leader Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council

Housing Options Officer

Ashfield District Council
£31,067 - £33,366 per annum (pay award pending)
Do you want to make a real difference to the lives of residents in housing need? Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council

Building Services Operative

Ashfield District Council
£25,584 - £27,269 per annum (pay award pending)
The Facilities team are looking to recruit an enthusiastic individual Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Ashfield District Council

Street Cleansing Technician (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5, £24,397 per annum (pay award pending)
Do you enjoy working outside, as part of a team that make a direct difference to the communities of Doncaster? Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council
Linkedin Banner