Agenda item

Council considered a report on proposals for the appointment of Charter Trustees for Redditch as part of the Structural Change Orders (SCO) associated with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

Members were advised that, whilst the final decision from Government regarding LGR was still awaited on the date of the meeting, there was the opportunity to take steps to protect Redditch’s civic identity and ceremonial traditions as part of the transition process. Members were reminded that Redditch had been granted Borough status in 1980, enabling the appointment of a Mayor and the establishment of civic traditions which had continued since that time.

It was noted that, once the Borough Council ceased to exist, these arrangements would not automatically continue unless specific provision was made within the SCO. Members were advised that the report sought Council’s support for a request to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for the establishment of Charter Trustees for the unparished areas of Redditch. It was explained that Charter Trustees were a recognised mechanism used to preserve civic and ceremonial functions following LGR and would be responsible for matters such as the Borough Charter, civic regalia and ceremonial property.

Members were further advised that additional work would be required during the transition period to identify relevant civic and ceremonial assets and to consider the associated governance, financial and administrative arrangements.

Following presentation of the report, Members discussed the item in detail and commented on the following points:

·       Members highlighted the importance of preserving the role of Mayor as a non-political civic representative for the Borough and maintaining Redditch’s civic identity and traditions.

·       The contribution made by successive Mayors in supporting local charities, community organisations and civic events, both during and after their term of office was recognised.

·       The value of the Mayor in promoting civic pride, raising the profile of Redditch and acting as an ambassador for the Borough and the King’s representative.

·       Members expressed concern that LGR could result in smaller towns losing their identity and visibility within a larger authority area.

·       It was suggested that retaining a civic head would help provide representation, influence and advocacy for Redditch within future local government structures.

·       Questions were raised regarding the future ownership and management of civic and ceremonial assets, including regalia, gifts and other items associated with the office of Mayor. Officers confirmed that an inventory would need to be made.

·       Members requested further information regarding the likely costs of establishing Charter Trustees and the level of any future precept. Officers advised that the estimated precept was expected to be low and that further details would be established as part of the transition process. It was noted that the unitary authority would provide financial support in the first year while expenses were being established and that the additional precept would be implemented in the following year.

·       Concern was expressed about the impact of any additional precept on residents, particularly those experiencing financial hardship.

·       It was questioned whether a ceremonial mayoral function remained necessary with a suggestion being made that civic responsibilities could potentially be undertaken through alternative arrangements.

·       Some Members expressed the view that the role represented an unnecessary expense and that residents should be consulted on whether such arrangements should continue.

The resolutions were proposed by Councillor Craig Warhurst and seconded by Councillor Matthew Dormer.

RESOLVED that

1)     A request be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government for provision to be included in the relevant Structural Changes Order for the establishment of Charter Trustees for the unparished areas of the current Borough of Redditch from the re-organisation date; and

2)    Authority be delegated to the Chief Executive, following consultation with the Leader of the Council and the Monitoring Officer, to agree the wording of the request and to take any necessary steps to progress the proposal through the Local Government Reorganisation process.