But Jim, I didn't ask him a question. I suggested that he submit the pros and cons on the matter, after all, who better than the local politician to know this stuff ? Surely one would expect a politician who has submited a question to the board, to at least try to come up with a why or why not ??
There has to be some ulterior motive as to why the question was even posed. We've had three resounding NO's to the question, yours, Chris, and Dave's, but why, why, why, is South Ribble even contemplating joining Preston borough.
What, all of a sudden, has brought this on ?
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Thank you for all the replies which have been received - from Spitfire, Martin, noel, LDunlop76 and David.
With regard to David's remarks, of course I can set out the possible advantages and disadvantages of South Ribble merging with Preston. However, I did not ask my original question, so that I could then preach my own views.
As a local politician, I have always believed the most important thing is to listen to the views of the residents whom I was elected to serve. On this issue, this is more true than ever, as none of the South Ribble Councillors have a mandate from the public to abolish their Council.
Had David clicked on the web link in my original post, he would have seen the potential pros and cons of the proposed merger, in the opinion of South Ribble Borough Council. I would advise him to do so if he wishes to find out more.
May I remind everyone that the Full Council which will make the decision is tomorrow, Thursday 7th December at 6pm at the Civic Centre. The public is welcome to attend and voice their views, but I would advise you to arrive early.
In the mean time, please continue to post your comments. I will let you all know how the vote goes, which way I voted and my reasons for doing so at the end of this week.
Best regards
Cllr Michael Green
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Thank you for getting back to us, Councillor
Thank you Michael for your response. I made the mistake of not clicking on to the link you posted, and I'm assuming neither did most of our readers, or one of them would undoubtably have mentiond on this page that the pros and cons were included.
Without having some good inside information as to the costs involved, the number of jobs lost, what the breakdown of the old council would bring, and just what a bigger Preston/South Ribble council would involve in the long run, it's a tough one to figure out.
The general public can only hope that the 'true' facts have been given to them. It seems very complicated.
I hope the meeting is very informative to the general public, and regardless of their views, I hope the council can make the right decision for the good of the community at large.
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On the face of it it seems a good move. Most of us are sceptical though because any change always seems to cost more money, however if the likelehood is reduced council tax... I didn't see that mentioned anywhere but I would expect it if economies of scale are to occur, I'm in favour. HOWEVER IT'S A BIG IF because I don't trust politicians, no offence councillor.
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A cautionary note , a few years ago we had a similar situation, we were presented with the prospect of 'economies of scale' , 'cost savings', with the request that areas join together and save. Accountabiliy became clouded, accessability became more difficult, and taxes increased rapidly !
It's a fact of life that local governments like to enlarge their 'capture area', giving the few in control more power , as overall budgets get larger so does the prospect of greater idividual financial rewards for top officials , bigger doesn't necessarily mean better at the consumer level !
Prior to 1974 we had the Preston Rural District Council, has the area improved greatly with it's demise and introduction of South Ribble ?
Don't believe everything they tell you !
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I'm pleased to write that South Ribble decided not to go ahead with the merger. 87% of the citizens who responded were against the merger which I believe would only have benefited Preston as the major player.
From todays LEP....
A merger of South Ribble and Preston authorities into one 'super-council' moved a step closer last night at a packed and passionate meeting in Leyland.
Leader of South Ribble Council Howard Gore said it was "the biggest decision I have ever had to make" to recommend the council moves away from the two-tiered system and into a unitary authority.
Noel [?][?][?]
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David, I don`t understand. My copy of todays LEP states that SRBC have listened to the people ( the first time in my memory) and ABANDONED any thoughts of joining Preston. Three cheers for that.
Jim
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I think you've got that wrong David.
LEP Headlines " Super Council Marriage off"
Howard Gore said they must now work closer with Lancashire County Council to ensure South Ribble's voice is heard.
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