Telford authority votes to axe 14 councillors
Telford & Wrekin Council has voted to save up to £135,000 a year by cutting its number of councillors from 54 to 40, despite fears the changes could be divisive and undemocratic.
Telford & Wrekin Council has voted to save up to £135,000 a year by cutting its number of councillors from 54 to 40, despite fears the changes could be divisive and undemocratic.
The move came as the council's Tory leaders defended themselves against allegations of "rolling over" in the face of Government cuts during a heated debate and angry political claims and counter-claims.
The council will now ask the Boundary Commission to create 40 single member wards, which will be used for the first time at the May 2015 elections.
At last night's full council meeting, Councillor Sean Kelly, cabinet member for efficient, community-focussed council, said: "It's currently a very confusing system for my residents who say it's not necessary to have three ward members in one place.
"It skews direct lines of accountability within those wards, particularly if members wish to play party politics. The commission will ensure equality is represented in those wards."
A Boundary Commission survey showed nine wards more than 10 per cent larger than the national average and one more than 30 per cent bigger, due to growth since the last review in 2002.
But Labour councillor Derek White said: "In my ward we have a Conservative and Labour member and the people go to speak to who they voted for. That's what democracy is about, electing someone to speak on your behalf.
"Lots of people will feel left out if there is no-one from the party they voted for to represent them."
Members of the large, boisterous crowd at Wrockwardine Wood Arts College in Telford were warned ontheir behaviour as opposition parties accused leaders of failing to challenge the Government's cuts.
Labour councillor Kuldip Sahota asked: "Where does this administration's loyalty lie? With the people of Telford and Wrekin or the Government? They seem to be rolling over every time the Tory-led Government does something rather than fighting for money, jobs and services for this town."
Labour called for a rethink on plans to make £13 million of the council's £25 million cuts in the first year, arguing this would cushion the area's economy.
But cabinet members said Telford had to take its share of the pain and blamed the previous Labour Government for the financial situation.
About 30 trade unionists staged an anti-cuts demonstration outside.
By Danny Carden