The leader of Stafford Borough Council says the community comes first in any discussions following the announcement about the future of local government.

Councillor Aidan Godfrey said serving residents and businesses across the borough must always be the priority in any local government reorganisation - such as creating more jobs and opportunities, regeneration of town centres, better transport and ensuring good homes are available.

Councillor Godfrey was speaking after the deputy prime minister, Angela Rayner, announced plans this week for the reorganisation of local government as part of the ‘English Devolution White Paper.’  

He said that he, along with his fellow district council leaders in Staffordshire, the county council, and Stoke on Trent City Council, would be looking carefully at the Government’s proposals.

“We will be seeking the very best outcomes for our residents and businesses. That is our priority.”

He continued: “The White Paper does bring more clarity on the Government’s approach to devolution and local government reorganisation, but I want to consider this paper in detail, and discuss with the other members of the Staffordshire Leaders’ Board, to decide what our next steps will be.

“Councils are most effective when they are small enough to know the needs of local people and large enough to be cost effective.”

He added: “But we will not be taking our eye off the ball in continuing to serve the residents and businesses that make up our wonderful borough. This includes delivering the key services they rely on as well as the ambitious plans we have for regenerating Stafford town centre - which was the number one priority for our residents.”

Press Release No 6177