As the English devolution bill continues to reshape the country’s political landscape, one crucial aspect that has been overlooked is the role of town and parish councils. With the postponement of local elections, this period presents an opportunity for communities to actively participate in shaping the future of their most hyperlocal decision-makers.
In Lewes, East Sussex, the town council is at the forefront of this conversation. As the county is among the six prioritised for the establishment of a combined authority, the council is exploring how residents can lead discussions on creating truly community-driven and place-based solutions to the most pressing local issues.
“If communities want town and parish councils that truly reflect their needs and ambitions, now is the time to help shape them,” says Veronique Poutrel, the town clerk of Lewes. With the future of local elections still uncertain, this period allows for greater engagement with the most local decision-makers.
However, the delay in elections has raised concerns about the legitimacy of unelected councils. Sue Carroll from Rodmell, East Sussex, argues that “allowing councils that are notorious for being inefficient, unresponsive and unaccountable to their constituents to continue to run their counties for years after their term of office has ended, unelected and without a mandate, is not justifiable.”
Dr. Richard Simmons from Chatham, Kent, also questions the consistency of this approach, suggesting that Reform UK should be demanding by-elections in constituencies where MPs have defected to the party.
As the English devolution bill continues to unfold, the role of town and parish councils will be crucial in shaping the future of local governance. This period of uncertainty presents both challenges and opportunities for communities to actively participate in the decision-making process and ensure that their local councils truly reflect their needs and ambitions.