Local government big hitters have voiced concerns about the accountability, effectiveness and necessity of the incoming combined authority mayors on the eve of election day.
Voters today take to the polls in six regions across the country, marking the biggest milestone yet in what has been a turbulent journey for the sector in its pursuit for devolved powers.
However, shadow minister for local government and devolution, Jim McMahon, warned of the potential for ‘huge failure’ with elections taking place in a ‘fallow year’.
Speaking at an Institute for Government event last week, Mr McMahon, a former council leader, said: ‘Voters won’t be trekking to the polls to vote for local councillors.
'They will be going solely to elect a mayor they did not ask for in a process they were not engaged with.’
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