Laura Sharman 24 September 2014

Welsh councils urged to push ahead with voluntary mergers

Local authorities in Wales have been urged to agree voluntary mergers to end uncertainty for staff and service users, by minister for public services Leighton Andrews.

The minister outlined the changes ahead for local government, telling assembly members there would be change ‘voluntary or not’.

He said: ‘We cannot continue to operate with 22 local authorities. There will be change, voluntary or not, and I am offering a unique opportunity to those who are willing.

‘I want local authorities themselves to make fundamental and lasting change to create modern and effective local government in Wales.

‘I hope they seize this opportunity since those who agree to merge voluntarily will determine their own future and will not face elections until May 2018.’

Mr Andrews said funding would be available to incentivise voluntary mergers, details of which will be published following the Provisional Local Government Settlement for 2015-16 next month. He also said proposals for a Staff Commission to support councils through transitions would be brought forward.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Tea Time Club Assistant

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro-rata
Tea Time Club Assistant  Grade 1 £24,027 pro-rata Permanent 10 hours per week Required from September 2025 Would you like to work with a group of won Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Licensing Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,403 £28,598
The Community Protection Service is looking for 2 Licensing Assistants to join the Business Compliance Team    1 x Temporary for 1 year 1 x Temporary Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lunchtime Supervisor

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro rata
Lunchtime Supervisor  Required from 1st September 2025 Grade 1    £24,027 pro rata Permanent We are seeking to appoint a Lunchtime Supervisor to join Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Child Protection Chair (Registered Social Worker)

North East Lincolnshire Council
Up to £48,710 dependent upon experience
We are seeking an Child Protection Chair who is a registered qualified and experienced Social Worker. North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Organisation and Service Designer

North East Lincolnshire Council
NJC34 £43,693
If you’re someone who can blend creative storytelling to inspire customers, staff and leaders North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council
Linkedin Banner