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The Leader, Councillor Topping introduced report ES/2324 which related to the Consideration of proposals for Local Government Reorganisation affecting East Suffolk.
The purpose of the report was to consider the Interim Plan proposals for Local Government Reorganisation affecting East Suffolk as part of the English Devolution White Paper published by HM Government on 16 December 2024.
On 5 February, East Suffolk Council was invited to submit an Interim Plan to Government covering initial thoughts regarding Local Government Reorganisation in Suffolk by 21 March.
Full Council debated the matter at its Full Council meeting of the same date 19 March 2025, in which Council approved by majority vote the following recommendations:
1. Considers and comments on the Interim Plan for reorganisation contained within Appendix A to this report.
2. Recommends to Cabinet that a multi-unitary model of local government best meets the needs of residents and businesses in East Suffolk.
3. Recommends to Cabinet that authority be delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to make changes to the Interim Plan, in conjunction with district and borough council colleagues and contribute to a joint covering letter ahead of submission to Government by its deadline of 21 March 2025.
The Chair thanked Members of Full Council for a good and considered debate earlier that evening.
Councillor Ashton queried if the delegated authority approved under recommendation 3, could result in substantial change being made. The Chair confirmed the recommendation states that any changes would be made in consultation with the Chief Executive and Leader. Councillor Topping confirmed she would not agree to any significant change without bringing it back for consideration.
Councillor Langdon-Morris commented that he would like to see communities referenced in plans moving forward.
Councillor Whitelock added that an overwhelming message from Council was respecting localities and the local nature of Councils.
Councillor Byatt thanked colleagues for the positive debate and queried the timetable moving forwards. The Chair responded that information regarding timelines would be made available as soon as possible.
The Chair concluded that Members would be working together to do their best for the local communities of East Suffolk.
On the proposition of Councillor Topping, seconded by Councillor Beavan it was unanimously
RESOLVED
That Cabinet:
1. Considered the views expressed by Full Council during its debate on the Interim Plan for reorganisation at its meeting on 19 March 2025.
2. Delegated authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, to make changes to the Interim Plan, in conjunction with district and borough council colleagues and contribute to a joint letter ahead of submission to Government by its deadline of 21 March 2025.