⏳ Last Chance to Have Your Say on the Future of Local Government in Staffordshire

Time is ticking if you’d like to have your say on how local services should be run in the future. A public survey about the reorganisation of local government across southern and mid Staffordshire closes on Monday 1st September, and residents of East Staffordshire - yes, that includes us here in Burton - are being urged to take part before the deadline.

 

The online survey, which has already seen nearly 13,000 responses, can be filled out here:
👉 https://online1.snapsurveys.com/shapingstaffordshire

 

The survey is part of an important consultation run by six councils: East Staffordshire, Cannock Chase, Lichfield, South Staffordshire, Stafford Borough and Tamworth. Together, they’re working on a joint plan to reorganise how local services like bin collections, road repairs, elderly care, and street cleaning are delivered.

 

The idea is to replace the current two-tier council system (district and county councils) with fewer, larger ‘unitary authorities’. These would take responsibility for everything, making local government simpler, more efficient, and—hopefully—better value for money. If plans go ahead, the six existing councils would be phased out by 2028.

 

📮 Not a fan of online forms? No problem. Paper copies of the survey are available in local libraries and council offices. Council staff have also been out and about at community events encouraging people to take part, with more sessions planned in the coming days - check your local council’s website or social media for details.

 

The councils submitted an early proposal to the Government back in March, arguing that sticking to existing council boundaries would make for a smoother, more cost-effective transition. A full business case will be submitted to the Government this November, with final decisions expected after that.

 

This is a rare opportunity to help shape how our public services are managed in the future. Whether you're a lifelong Burtonian or new to the area, your views genuinely matter.

 

🗳️ Don’t miss your chance to weigh in—survey closes 1st

September.