After inviting submissions from Norfolk and Suffolk councils on proposed boundary changes, the Boundary Committee has now released its draft proposal for Norfolk.
It gives three choices - a large unitary council for the whole of Norfolk and incorporating the Lowestoft area, with a second option which would see Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft become one authority and a third option which would make Norwich a unitary authority on expanded boundaries.
Great Yarmouth Borough Council members and officers have expressed their surprise at the Boundary Committee’s recommendation.
Council Leader Barry Coleman said: “We are concerned that the Boundary Committee’s preferred option of a large unitary council might be less effective than the existing system.
“While there are likely to be obvious economies of scale, it is hard to see how the proposal of one big council could work locally with our communities to shape services to meet their specific needs. Decisions would be made so remotely from the people they affect.”
Great Yarmouth Borough Council has worked closely with other local authorities to submit a structure it felt would benefit its residents and those of surrounding areas. It will continue to work closely with other authorities to seek the best solution for the borough.
“While the alternatives that have been put forward the Boundary Committee are not ones that the council had previously considered it will be giving them serious consideration to see how they might serve the interests of local people ,” added Councillor Coleman.
“Great Yarmouth has a strong voice and a history of strong partnership working which it will use to ensure that the Boundary Committee’s final proposals take account of local needs and views.”
The council has until September 26 to consider both proposals and it will be carrying out public consultations to gauge the feelings of residents. More details will be released later to explain how people can state their views.
For further information contact Leader Barry Coleman on 01493 846129 or Executive Director Customers and Resources Jane Ratcliffe on 01493 846210.