PUBLIC consultation has now started on proposals to merge Stratford and Warwick District Councils to create a new local authority covering the whole of South Warwickshire.
The consultation, affecting residents in Studley, Alcester and Sambourne, will run until Sunday, October 24 and residents, businesses, town and parish councils, local groups, organisations and key stakeholders are encouraged to take part and have their say by completing an online questionnaire.
Stratford and Warwick District Councils are looking at joining forces. Picture by Marcus Mingins 0521008MMR3
“This is an extremely important consultation that relates to the future of both Stratford and Warwick District Councils,” said Councillor Tony Jefferson, the Leader of Stratford District Council.
“Both councils face significant financial challenges – the impact of dealing with the pandemic, when combined with the increased costs of delivering existing services as well as responding to the climate emergency.
“We have to recognise the undeniable fact that the world has changed in ways we could not have envisaged and we need to adapt to those changes.
“We also need to consider the positive opportunities a South Warwickshire Council will bring.
Stratford and Warwick District Council are looking at joining forces. Picture by Marcus Mingins 0521008MMR2
“It is vitally important that before councillors come to a decision, we hear the views of the wider community on whether you believe a merger is the right option to take or not.”
Coun Andrew Day, Leader of Warwick District Council added: “As much as the pandemic has been a crisis for us, it has presented an opportunity to re-imagine what local government services in South Warwickshire might be like in the future.
“We need to hear your views – we need to listen and respond to what our residents want.”
The consultation document and online questionnaire can be viewed and completed at: https://www.southwarwickshire.org.uk/
Paper copies,, as well as in different languages and formats can be requested by emailing: [email protected] or calling 01789 267575. The paper questionnaires are returned using a FREEPOST address.
Questionnaires are also available to pick up Stratford District Council’s offices at Elizabeth House, Church Street, Stratford, CV37 6HX.
