Shropshire Star

Shropshire leader open to future 'Broxit' talks

The leader of Shropshire Council has told his Telford counterpart he is open to discussions about Broseley switching local authorities – but only after elections and a boundary review.

Published
Peter Nutting

Writing in response to Telford & Wrekin Council leader Shaun Davies, Councillor Peter Nutting, who leads the neighbouring Shropshire authority, said that while possible in principle, he understood that there is no "immediate likelihood" of any move.

It comes after South Shropshire MP, Philip Dunne last week urged Broseley residents pursuing the potential switch, to abandon it and work with the town's councillor, Simon Harris, to secure the best deal for them.

Last year Broseley Town Councillor Mark Garbett was tasked with conducting a review into whether the idea would beneficial.

It has now emerged that the town council has formally asked Telford & Wrekin council to support its review.

Mr Davies initiated the discussion over the issue with Shropshire Council by writing to Councillor Nutting saying: "You may have seen reference to this in the local press, but today I have formally received notification from Broseley Town Council that they would like this council to consider supporting a review of local boundaries between our two councils, to enable them to become part of Telford & Wrekin Council.

"There is a formal process overseen by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England that, amongst other things, requires the agreement of both of our councils.

"From a democratic point of view I do not want to stand in the way of any community seeking the representation that they feel best suits them, but before responding I wanted to get your views on this request. I would be happy for us to get together to discuss this if you feel that would be useful."

In response Councillor Nutting said that any discussion would be best placed after local council elections, and if, and when there is a boundary review.

"I agree that communities should be represented by whomever they wish however I understand that, though possible in principle, there is no immediate likelihood that the Local Government Boundary Commission for England will take the proposal forward, particularly in advance of local elections in both councils and a potential wider boundary review.

"This being the case, I suggest that we hold until such time that elections are behind us and a potential boundary review is before us," Councillor Nutting replied.