by Pete Lammas

BROMSGROVE residents have been promised they will be fully consulted over proposals that could see the greatest shake up ever of local government.

The Government has suggested that to bring about greater efficiencies in costs and services, district councils, such as Bromsgrove, should cease to exist and be replaced by single unitary authorities.

Critics say this would have the effect of distancing local government from the electorate, loss of identity and, while it may save money over 25 years, will prove costly in the short term. It will also produce poorer representation for the electorate. Local government minister David Milliband outlined the Government's plans in January and made particular reference to the reorganisation of the 32 'two tier' councils in local government.

Last Tuesday at a specially convened meeting of Bromsgrove District Council to formulate the council's response, members pledged to consult residents before making any binding decisions and to support holding a referendum on the changes.

They also unanimously supported a suggestion put forward by council leader Roger Hollingworth (Con-Alvechurch), who is holding extensive consultations with officials and fellow councillors from neighbouring authorities.

His plan is for a county authority which would be responsible for strategy, policy making and overall planning in areas such as education, transport and social services. But the hands-on services would be carried out by the present six district councils. Savings the Government is looking for would come from sharing services with the other five districts in Worcestershire each taking on a particular service.

Cllr Hollingworth said it is vital Bromsgrove stands up and is counted and its views are known otherwise its voice will be lost.

"It is vital all the people of Bromsgrove have a chance to have their say on this issue," he said.

Labour group leader Peter McDonald (Waseley) declared: "This is the most significant meeting this council has had in over ten years. In the balance is the very future of this council." He emphasised more services locally administered would strengthen grass roots democracy.

Cllr McDonald's suggestion that a cross party task force be established to look at the whole issue was agreed.