By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Tewkesbury MP Cameron Thomas and Borough Council Leader Richard Stanley fear splitting the county into two unitary authorities could create unfair differences.
The two Liberal Democrat politicians are among those who believe plans for a single unitary authority for Gloucestershire is the best option on offer.
A public consultation is currently underway on all three of the proposals put forward for local government reorganisation in the county.
These options include a single unitary council providing all services provided by Gloucestershire County Council and the six district authorities.
There is also a plan for an expanded Gloucester city council with an authority representing the rest of the county.
And splitting the county with one unitary authority covering Gloucester, Stroud and the Forest of Dean in the West and another in the East comprising Cheltenham and Tewkesbury as well as Cotswold District.
“The main challenge, under any future local government, is to deliver the best services, fairly and consistently, for every community,” Mr Cameron and Cllr Stanley said in a joint statement.
“It is clear in our minds that a single council would be best equipped to deliver this. We all use the same roads, emergency services, and public services. It makes sense to plan these things together.
“People’s lives don’t stop at district borders. Issues like homelessness, transport, support for families, and care for older people affect the whole county, not just one area.
“Splitting the county could create unfair differences. Some areas might get more investment than others, and services could become uneven.
“At a time when public services are already under strain, we should not introduce barriers or create structures which might pull those resources in different directions. A single unitary council would cost less to run, avoid creating duplicated systems, and require fewer back-office staff and less administration.
“Some services can’t easily be divided – of particular concern is the impact on fire and rescue services. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue is too small to be split in two and cannot be overseen by two separate councils. Things like fostering, education and highways also work best when they’re run county-wide.
“Our opinion is that one council would give Gloucestershire its best chance to retain its identity and safeguard its community interests and neighbourhood partnerships.
“It protects essential services, making sure everyone gets the same level of support, no matter where they live, and it will save millions of pounds of unnecessary duplication. Under a single council,
Gloucestershire is best placed to speak with a united voice and shape its future together.
People can find out more about the consultation and take part by clicking here.
The Government consultation runs until March 26.