Making Sure Our Town Has a Strong Voice

A New Chapter for Rugby: Making Sure Our Town Has a Strong Voice

The decision to move towards two unitary councils in Warwickshire represents the biggest change to local government in a generation. While the structure of local councils may change, one thing must not: Rugby deserves a strong voice at the heart of the new arrangements.

For too long, decisions affecting Rugby have too often been viewed through a county-wide lens. As one of the fastest-growing towns in the Midlands, Rugby has its own identity, its own ambitions and its own challenges. The new unitary council must recognise that.

As Liberal Democrats, we believe local government works best when decisions are taken as close as possible to the people they affect. That is why we will continue to argue for genuine local decision-making and for the creation of a Rugby Town Council. This would ensure that services such as parks, community facilities, local events and neighbourhood improvements continue to have dedicated local leadership and accountability.

While we did not agree with a split County the Secretary of State has resolved that there will be 2.The creation of a North Warwickshire unitary council could also presents significant opportunities. By bringing together communities with shared economic interests and transport links, we can create a council that is better placed to attract investment, improve infrastructure, support businesses and deliver high-quality public services.

However, this will only happen if Rugby has a strong voice around the table from the very beginning. We cannot allow decisions to be dominated by larger neighbouring authorities or see Rugby become an afterthought.

As Chair of Rugby Borough Council's cross-party Local Government Reform Group, I am committed to working constructively across political parties to secure the very best outcome for our town. This is bigger than party politics. It is about ensuring Rugby enters the new unitary arrangements with confidence, influence and a clear vision for the future.

The coming months will shape local government for decades to come. I want residents, businesses, community organisations and parish councils to be part of that conversation.

Together, we can build a new council that is efficient, locally accountable and ambitious for Rugby. Change is coming. Let's make sure Rugby helps shape it.

Help us contact us hello@rugbylibdems.org.uk

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