Alicia Kearns, the Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, recently criticized the Rutland County Council’s approach to local government reform during a parliamentary session. Kearns expressed her concerns regarding the council’s decision-making process and its disregard for local opinion regarding potential reorganization.
Concerns Over Local Government Reform
During a session of Topical Questions in the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government, Kearns addressed the council’s handling of local government reorganization. She emphasized that Rutland County Council had effectively “left our fate in the hands of others.” This approach has raised significant concerns among the residents of Rutland.
Community Discontent
Kearns highlighted that many residents are opposed to rejoining Leicestershire, yet the council continues to push forward with this proposal. She stated, “The council knows the majority of Rutlanders overwhelmingly do not support re-joining Leicestershire, yet they continue to steamroll ahead with very little support.”
In a survey conducted by Rutland County Council (RCC), it was noted that many residents voiced their opinions. Approximately 45% of respondents indicated support for a partnership with South Lincolnshire in the comments section of the survey. Meanwhile, Kearns reported that about one-third of participants opposed joining with Leicestershire and Leicester, and a quarter rejected the idea of a single unitary model.
Survey Insights
The survey results demonstrated clear community preferences:
- 45% supported a union with South Lincolnshire
- About one-third opposed joining Leicestershire
- 25% against a single unitary model with Leicestershire and Leicester
- Only 10% were in favor of the North City South model
Push for Local Community Input
On January 12, during a parliamentary session, Kearns requested a meeting with the Minister for Local Government. Her aim was to ensure local communities would have a chance to voice their opinions regarding the proposed Rutland Stamford model—a topic the RCC did not adequately consult on.
Efforts to obtain a statement from Rutland County Council for comment were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to inquiries regarding Kearns’ criticisms.
Kearns’ remarks underscore the ongoing tensions between local governance and community voices in Rutland. As the local government reform process unfolds, the emphasis on resident opinions and preferences remains crucial for future discussions.
