A COUNCIL that had been set to be part of a new unitary authority with Lichfield and Burntwood has confirmed it will hold local elections next year.
Cannock Chase District Council was one of 10 authorities, including Lichfield District Council, earmarked to be axed in 2028 in favour of a single body.
But earlier this month the local government reorganisation (LGR) process was put on hold for 14 areas in England. Plans for four areas, including Essex, were withdrawn.
Elections were due to take place for the new Northern and Southern Staffordshire councils in May 2027. But now Cannock Chase District Council said its elections will go ahead for 12 seats under the current system of electing members by thirds.
Cannock Chase District Council leader Paul Jones told fellow cabinet members that the Government had announced a rapid review of LGR following updated legal advice.
He added:
"The north/south model for Staffordshire has therefore been paused, rather than cancelled and it's among 14 areas whose decisions are being reviewed.
"Councils will continue to deliver services. District and parish elections will proceed under current boundaries as well."
Cllr Mandy Bell, cabinet member for resources and corporate services at Cannock Chase District Council, gave details of the financial impact Staffordshire councils had already faced before the decision to pause the process was made.
She said:
"The total cost is £277,000 in South and North Staffordshire, offset by a contribution of £97,000 by central Government.
"But the impact is not just cost. There has been a considerable amount of officer time invested in local government reorganisation.
"It is only due to the diligence of officers we haven't seen a massive impact on the services the council delivers."
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