I want to inform you the residents and electorate of Wednesfield North, why I am going to support the proposals for the West Midlands Combined Authority proposals. I am doing this because I have always believed in strategic Authorities. That is why I joined the West Midlands County Council back in the 1980’s.
The engine behind this push for a Combined Authority is Government. Even if you don’t like the ‘colour’ of the Government, you have to recognise that they are the most powerful body in the Land. They are setting guidelines and the rules for a Combined Authority. They want the West Midlands to be part of it and they have made the situation very clear. If we want the finance for the infrastructure we need here in the region to be effective and competitive, we have to form a Combined Authority.
Here are the reasons why I will be supporting and speaking up for the City to take its place at the table. But I am also keen to her what you say about these Conservative Government proposals. Also I am keen to hear what you have to say about the so called Metro Mayor? Should we have one? The Government and the Chancellor is very keen that we do…..but I would like to hear your voice. Should Wolverhampton look for the nomination for instance? Let me say I love Wednesfield & Wolverhampton. I am always championing the City and our Village. I am not one that does nothing to enhance our own structures locally. I take part in saving and championing our heritage. I speak up for Wednesfield and Wolverhampton regularly. I have appeared on TV and Radio doing just that as well as the regional press. This Combined Authority will not make me any less influential, when I am championing these causes. So what does it mean…..
Well this is What it means…
- a new way for local councils to work together to promote transport, economic development and regeneration across the whole region
- local decision-making powers passed down by central government to our region
- securing long-term funding and investment to help boost economic growth and employment opportunities
- the chance to better plan those things that could be more effectively delivered across boundaries – like tourism, skills development and business support.
What it doesn’t mean…
- it won’t replace existing councils
- there won’t be one new single authority
- one local council won’t absorb the others and set the agenda
- councillors in each authority will still be accountable to their electorate.
If you are interested in this item then respond to me via email you can contact me on email@philbateman.com. Please leave your address so I can see if you are indeed one of my own voters.
