The residents of West Bridgford are losing out by not having their own Town Council, according to the leader of Rushcliffe’s Labour Group.
Councillor Jen Walker ( Labour ) who represents Ruddington on Rushcliffe Borough Council is pressing for local residents to be consulted on the idea.
Smaller communities such as Gamston, Holme Pierrepont, Ruddington and Radcliffe already have their own parish or town councils, with responsibility for a range of community services, including play areas, street lighting and parking.
Councillor Walker says it’s unacceptable that decisions about the future of West Bridgford – such as the pedestrianisation of Central Avenue – ‘are being taken by politicians who don’t live in West Bridgford.’
The town has a growing population in excess of 36,000.
“The Labour Group believes the Borough Council is honour bound to put right that one third of Rushcliffe’s population has been declined a democratic voice and a structure for taking community action, “ she added.
It’s 50 years since West Bridgford Urban District Council was abolished in the last big reorganisation of local government. With discussions about another round of big changes to our councils, Jen Walker believes it’s the right time for local residents to consider the strong case for a Town Council for West Bridgford.
“West Bridgford can’t afford to be hung out to dry. We need to ensure that the voice and identity of West Bridgford is not submerged even further.”
In 1996, the West Bridgford Local Area Forum was created to represent local views, but it has no powers.
As part of consulting residents on a Town Council, a Labour Group proposal for two mailshots to local homes was rejected by the ruling Conservatives on Rushcliffe Borough Council, claiming it would cost £80,000 and add an extra £5.23 for a Band D properties in West Bridgford.
Rushcliffe Council also claims the issue would be confusing for local people and “challenging” for the authority to undertake.
“This is not acceptable,” says Councillor Walker.
“The Borough’s consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders would be improved by having a Town Council closer to the community. There is an urgent need to address this anomaly.”
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