A LOCAL MP says that while delays to local government reorganisation are "unfortunate" it is essential that any changes deliver the best possible outcomes for local residents.
Proposals which would have seen Lichfield District Council and Staffordshire County Council abolished and replaced with a new unitary authority have been paused.
The Government said it was planning to review reorganisation across the country, despite elections for the new body covering Lichfield and Burntwood being due to take place next year.
The proposals would have seen the current district council consumed by a new unitary authority covering areas including Stafford, East Staffordshire, Cannock Chase, Tamworth and South Staffordshire.
Pausing the process has been branded an "extraordinary U-turn" by the Conservative leader of Lichfield District Council, while a think tank warned the changes risked becoming a "colossal white elephant".
But Labour MP Dave Robertson said getting reorganisation right was essential.
He said:
"Local Government Reorganisation represents a significant opportunity for Staffordshire.
"Lichfield District Council's own figures indicate that it has the potential to save Staffordshire taxpayers tens of millions of pounds each year.
"While delays are unfortunate, it is essential that the Government takes the time to get this right so that the people of Staffordshire receive the best possible outcomes from the reorganisation."
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