A prominent councillor has emphasized the importance of having a council at the “core” of any prospective merger.
Slough Borough Council is exploring various possibilities for merging with other councils as part of a significant restructuring initiative driven by the government.
One possibility involves merging with a borough in west London, engaging with other councils in Berkshire, or becoming part of a larger strategic authority for the Thames Valley region.
Gurcharan Manku, a prominent figure within Slough Borough Council, expressed his desire for the council to play a pivotal role in the forthcoming developments.
Facing a debt of hundreds of millions, the council recently listed its previous headquarters for sale to mitigate its financial burden.
Mr. Manku noted, “I have my reservations because Slough is a distinct borough characterized by its diverse and youthful population, its proximity to Heathrow, and a thriving business estate.”
He continued by highlighting the area’s “rich history of industry, innovation, and growth.”
Furthermore, he stated, “It’s imperative that we capitalize on these strengths and ensure we are integral to any unification or strategic authority we pursue.”
He expressed his concerns regarding pressing challenges, such as the debt and health disparity issues.
“These are the matters we must address during negotiations with other local authorities,” he remarked.
In December, the government unveiled plans encouraging councils to collaborate as part of larger strategic bodies to enhance local governance.
Each of these bodies would serve a combined population of at least 1.5 million and would be responsible for significant transportation, infrastructure, and development initiatives.
Conversely, smaller principal authorities would oversee more localized services and cater to populations of at least 500,000.
On Monday, Slough Borough Council’s cabinet discussed a range of potential options.
These included merging with a borough or boroughs in west London, as well as with Windsor and Maidenhead and Bracknell Forest Councils.
Leaders from councils in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Swindon have convened to explore the possibility of forming a new strategic authority together.
Council leader Dexter Smith remarked that such changes could bolster the “considerable economic base” of his council.
He assured that discussions would be transparent, stating that residents would be consulted regarding any proposed modifications, and councillors would have the opportunity to deliberate on them.
