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# MP says “local government isn’t always delivering” as plans are unveiled which could see Lichfield District Council axed
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/mp-says-local-government-isnt-always-delivering-as-plans-are-unveiled-which-could-see-lichfield-district-council-axed/
- Published: 2024-12-17T13:34:29.000Z
- Updated: 2024-12-17T13:34:44.000Z
- Description: Measures which could see Lichfield District Council abolished must ensure local communities still have a strong voice to protect their identities, an MP has said.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 18:49, News

MEASURES which could see Lichfield District Council abolished must ensure local communities still have a strong representative voice, an MP has said.

The Labour Government has unveiled plans to scrap two-tier local authority areas.

It would mean district councils being consumed into larger county councils in a bid to streamline services.

A paper published on the proposals highlighted how unitary authorities would be imposed where necessary.

Lichfield’s Labour MP Dave Robertson, who is also still a member of the district council, said change was needed to create better outcomes for residents:

> “Local government isn’t always delivering for our communities.  
>  
> “Whether it’s the crisis in SEND services, the state of our roads or the lack of investment in places like Burntwood and our neglected rural communities, much more needs to be done.   
>  
> “So, I welcome the fact that the Government is prepared to make some fundamental changes, rather than tinkering around the edges.  
>  
> “It’s really important that our communities have a strong voice that can protect our identity.  
>  
> “I raised this issue with the minister in the House of Commons and I will continue to work across Westminster and with local leaders to ensure we get the best possible outcome for Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages from this proposal.”

The proposals have drawn criticism from the District Councils’ Network who say Labour’s plans could create “mega-councils” rather than providing devolution in the way the Government says it will.

Lichfield District Council’s leader Cllr Doug Pullen has also questioned whether the proposals would have the desired effect.

He said:

> “Whatever form local government takes, the interests of residents and businesses must come first.  
>  
> “My concern about forcing councils to have at least 500,000 residents is that power and democratic accountability is actually moved further away from communities – the opposite of devolution.  
>  
> “I’ll be working closely with councillors, regional keaders, the county and government to ensure that we get the very best deal for Lichfield district.”