Reorganisation paralysis

Uncertainties relating to proposed Local Government reorganisation have already impacted on life in South Suffolk, not only at Babergh, but also at the Citizens Advice Bureau. I cannot help but be very irritated that the Government’s action has already caused paralysis, particularly since their reforms are very piecemeal and blatantly politically motivated. Essex for example will continue to have some District Councils, but Cornwall has one unitary for 500,000 people – what a mess!

While we were away on holiday the Terms of Reference were announced for the review by the Boundary Committee of Local Government in Suffolk, and the timetable that accompanied them was very tight indeed. The Committee is supposed to report by the end of the year with implementation is planned to take place in 2010. It is thought likely that the status quo will not be maintained, and that a unitary authority for West Suffolk as a whole, plus an enlarged Greater Ipswich authority will replace the current two tier system. This means that Babergh District Council, along with the other six District Councils in the County will be no more.

It is already becoming impossible to make sensible plans in areas such as the Babergh Customer Access Programme, of which I am a Board Member. Capital Expenditure is likely to be deferred until the outlook becomes clearer, and this means that improvements to customer service, plus related cost savings from increased use of computer technology, could be delayed.

The forward budget at the CAB is also being prepared without a clear view ahead. At present the Bureau is funded by both the County and by Babergh, but in future who knows what will happen? The needs of the Bureau for funds will not diminish, but it has to be questioned whether one authority will be as generous in its grants as two have been. The Bureau saves Government a great deal of money by generally helping out the most disadvantaged in society. Babergh, recognising this, has over recent years been hugely supportive. Let’s hope that a new authority, whatever form it takes, proves to be as generous.