A former chairman of Lichfield District Council criticised after asking for a definition of where Burntwood says he does know where the town is.
Cllr David Leytham asked for clarification at a meeting of the overview and scrutiny committee as part of a debate on development plans in the town.
But despite having served in senior roles, including as a former cabinet member, the Conservative representative for Whittington and Streethay asked for the committee to “define Burntwood”.
“It’s a huge sprawl, and usually we struggle to understand what we mean by that word ‘Burntwood’.
“On a map where does it start?”
Cllr David Leytham, Lichfield District Council
His comments drew criticism from Cllr Sue Woodward, leader of Burntwood Town Council.
She said councillors representing the district should not need locations pointing out to them.
“When Cllr Leytham asked for a definition of what Burntwood is, my jaw dropped to the floor.
“He’s a former chairman of the district council, a former cabinet member and former chair of the overview and scrutiny committee and should know exactly what and where Burntwood is.
“It goes to show, though, that for too long the leadership at Lichfield District Council has ignored Burntwood and its needs – but I really do hope this is now changing.”
Cllr Sue Woodward, Burntwood Town Council
Cllr Leytham told Lichfield Live his comments at the meeting were designed to help provide detail on the broader area.
“I asked the question, not because I don’t know Burntwood, but for clarity on what we at Lichfield District Council mean by Burntwood.
“Some see it as the area around Sankey’s Corner. Others see it as the parish-wide area that covers Boney Hay, Chase Terrace, Chasetown, Gorstey Lea and Burntwood Green.
“I wanted clarification on what we want people to see as ‘Burntwood’. Would it be the area around Sankey’s Corner or the wider parish?
“From the responses I got I gathered it will be the area around Sankey’s Corner.”
Cllr David Leytham, Lichfield District Council
I think that is a reasonable question. There is considerable sprawl all along there, I don’t know what the actual extents of Burntwood are, what is considered part of Burntwood and what is a stand alone area not considered Burntwood. Seems sensible to me that any project or committee working in, on, or got the area should have things properly defined, even if they are things that are well known to some or even all of those present.
Think we need some new young bloods who can look beyond their own boundaries. I think we should all be looking out for new people to represent us, living in the sticks and all. (for young bloods,that means the middle of nowhere).