Mark Whitehead 12 June 2018

Council leaders dismiss 'Dickensian' perception of authority

The residents of an East Anglian borough see their council as 'Dickensian', according to its mayor - even though leading councillors claim it as a national success story.

Margaret Marks, mayor of St Edmundsbury in Suffolk and a Tory member of the borough council, says many people regard their local authority as expensive and bureaucratic.

But she says once you explain clearly what the council does they realise their view is mistaken.

She says more must be done in local government to spell out clearly and simply what councils do, in language people understand.

St Edmundsbury is in the process of merging with neighbouring Forest Heath Council to create a new West Suffolk Council.

In a draft joint annual report the two council leaders, John Griffiths of St Edmundsbury and James Waters of Forest Heath, say: 'West Suffolk is a national success story and a UK leader in transforming how councils can deliver benefits that make a real difference to the people they serve.'

Mayor Margaret Marks told LocalGov: 'Many people see the council as expensive and ineffective arm of government - Dickensian and bureaucratic.

'But once you explain to people face to face about the position we're in and how we're going to solve it, they're fine.'

Photo: ©Keith Evans

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Festival and Events Support Officer - WMF2367e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£26,403 - £26,824
We are looking to appoint a Festival and Events Support Officer Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Member Support Officer WMF2374e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£32,061 - £32,597
This is an exciting opportunity for a Member Support Officer to join our Legal and Democratic Services Team! Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Legal Officer

Wakefield Council
£28,598.00 to £38,220.00, (Career Grade 6 to 8).
We are seeking a Legal Officer to join our Adults Community Law Team. Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Community Support Worker - Tendring South

Essex County Council
£25395.00 - £32546.00 per annum + + 26 Days Holiday & Local Gov Pen
Community Support Worker - Tendring SouthPermanent, Full Time£25,395 to £32,546 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Part Time CYPWD Support Worker

Essex County Council
£25395.00 - £32131.00 per annum + Pro Rata
Part Time CYPWD Support WorkerPermanent, Part Time£25,395 to £32,131 per annum, full time equivalentLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner