Fantastic response on Crewe town council ballot

 

More than 8,800 people have so far voted on the ballot for a town council in Crewe.

Residents have until February 29 to vote on whether they want a town council or not but the encouraging response has delighted Cheshire East Council. Ballot papers ask the direct question – ‘Do you want a single town council for Crewe?’

Cheshire East is urging all residents in Crewe to vote on this important topic, as the outcome will have a significant impact on the town’s future.

If a town council is established, the people of Crewe will have more local representation, similar to all other areas of Cheshire East, with the exception of Macclesfield.

It could take responsibility for local services and assets, such as Crewe Market Hall, and take a leading role in shaping its future.

If the result of the ballot is ‘no’, a special expense levy will be introduced in Crewe in April 2013. This will, more or less, pay for the services which a town council would have provided.

Councillor Michael Jones, Cabinet member with responsibility for resources, said: “I am extremely delighted with the response we have had so far and it shows the people of Crewe are taking a keen interest in this important matter.

“If Crewe had a town council, certain assets could be transferred to that authority, which would be better placed to manage them going forward. This is because local people know more about what their local community wants. A town council would give the people a voice in how the town centre develops.

“Without a town council, there is a real danger that such valued public facilities like town halls, market halls, allotments and other conveniences could be lost. Cheshire East Council does not wish to see this happen.”

He added: “In these austere economic times, Cheshire East can no longer support subsidised activities in unparished areas like Crewe if it is going to affect such vital services as providing help and support for children and adults in Cheshire East.”

Transfer and devolution of assets is a Cheshire East Council policy, which is in line with the Government’s localism agenda.

Completed ballot papers must be returned by no later than 5pm on February 29.

More information on other options for localised governance, in addition to a town council, with a breakdown of the facts on each, is available at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/crewegovreview

A printed version of this information is also available to pick up from the Municipal Buildings, Delamere House and Crewe Library.

For more information, residents can email: communitygovernancereview@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Alternatively, write to Registration Service and Business Manager, Democratic Services, Cheshire East Council, Westfields, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1HZ.