What are we asking for?

What are we asking for?

Simply put we want Tamworth Borough Council to undertake a Community Governance Review. To trigger this review we need at least 7.5% of all registered voters in the borough of Tamworth to sign a petition requesting this.

A Community Governance Review (CGR) is a formal process, often led by a district council, to evaluate and make changes to how local communities are governed at the town and parish level. These reviews assess whether current arrangements are efficient, effective, and well-suited to the needs of the community. 

Reviews involve consultation with local government electors, parish councils, and other interested parties to gather feedback on current governance arrangements. 

Potential Changes:

• CGRs can lead to various changes, including:

• Creation of new parish councils. 

• Modification of parish boundaries. 

• Adjustments to electoral arrangements (e.g., ward boundaries). 

• In extreme cases, the abolition of parishes. 

The ultimate goal is to enhance community engagement, create more cohesive communities, improve local democracy, and deliver local services more effectively. 

Part 4 of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 empowers principal councils to conduct Community Governance Reviews (CGRs) in their areas, including the creation of new parishes. This can be used to assess the feasibility and benefits of establishing parish councils in unparished areas. 

Elaboration:

• CGRs:

Part 4 of the Act allows principal councils (e.g., district councils, unitary authorities) to undertake CGRs to review and make changes to local community governance arrangements. 

• New Parishes:

A CGR can recommend the establishment of new parishes, which would then have the option of forming a parish council. 

• Principal Council Powers:

The principal council has the power to initiate a CGR, and the Act outlines the process for making recommendations and implementing any changes. 

• Unparished Areas:

This mechanism is particularly relevant for areas that currently do not have parish councils, as it provides a pathway for residents to explore the potential benefits of establishing one. 

• Feasibility and Benefits:

The CGR process allows for a thorough assessment of the feasibility and benefits of establishing a parish council, including factors such as the size and population of the proposed parish, the potential for local services, and the level of community support. 

• Alternative Styles:

The Act also allows for parishes to be given alternative styles or names, such as "town council", "community council", or "village council", to better reflect the local context. 

• Local Representation:

Parish councils provide a direct voice for residents in local decision-making, allowing them to represent their needs and preferences to the district council and other relevant authorities.