‘A huge opportunity to do things differently’ – last chance to have your say on council changes

There is just one week left for residents, businesses and local organisations to have their say on the future of how council services are delivered locally in Suffolk.

District and borough council leaders have today (January 5) urged people to not miss their chance to respond to the government’s statutory consultation into the future of local government in Suffolk and Norfolk, which closes on January 11.

The consultation seeks views on the two proposals for unitary councils in Suffolk.

The district and borough councils’ proposal is to replace the current six councils with three new unitary councils in the west, east and south of the county, each providing all council services for where you live.

This “Suffolk to the Power of Three” model is based on public feedback and designed to be big enough to deliver, local enough to care, ensuring strong local leadership, tailored services, and financial sustainability – together with the ability to prioritise funding and focus on the communities and businesses in their distinct areas.

There is also an alternative proposal from Suffolk County Council for a single council covering the whole of Suffolk.

In a joint statement, the Suffolk district and borough council leaders: “This is a fantastic opportunity to improve public services in Suffolk – to do things differently, to provide the change, hope and leadership that people want.

 “By moving to three strong, locally focused councils, we can deliver better services, make decisions closer to the communities they affect, and ensure every pound is spent wisely. There is just one week for people to respond to this consultation – please do so, because your voice matters in shaping Suffolk’s future.”

Visit the official consultation portal at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/local-government-reorganisation/norfolk-suffolk/ to submit your feedback.