Stafford town council plans move ahead

Stafford, the only part of its borough without a town or parish council, is a step closer to getting one despite a pause in wider local government reform plans.

The proposed Stafford Town Council would hold its first elections in May 2027, with 19 councillors representing 11 wards.

The authority would be legally established in April to ensure it is fully operational when elected members take office.

That would allow preparatory work such as drafting governance documents, arranging insurance and setting up a bank account.

The move comes after plans were unveiled in July to reorganise local government in Staffordshire by replacing the county's 10 councils with new north and south authorities. Those proposals have since been paused while they are reviewed.

The idea of creating a town council emerged amid concerns the reorganisation could weaken Stafford's local identity.

It would also preserve the civic tradition of appointing a mayor, which dates back to 1614.

Borough councillors voted unanimously at their full meeting on Tuesday in favour of setting up a new town council.

Such a town council would raise money through a precept added to residents' council tax bills. For a Band D household, the annual charge is estimated at £38.44.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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