The possible formation of a Spalding Town/Parish Council has moved a step closer with a consultation having been launched.
Unusually the town does not have a town or parish council and even voted against having one in 1998.
The Spalding headquartered South Holland District Council is responsible for decisions in the town at a local level.
The new unitary council would oversee 500,000 people, five times than the current population of South Holland.
Those for the creation of a town council for Spalding argue the town could be left behind if it didn’t have an authority to take over the likes of parks, events in the town or the Spalding Special Expense (the council tax precept).
If agreed, a new parish or town council could be established in time for parish elections in May 2027.
A spokesman for South Holland District Council, which is overseeing the review, said: “The council is now consulting on whether you think Spalding should have its own parish/town council through a Community Governance Review (CGR) – a formal process that involves consulting with local people and stakeholders about potential changes to local governance.
“The area under review focusses on the unparished area of Spalding and its boundaries with surrounding parishes.
“Parish or town councils are made up of locally elected representatives and manage such things as community events, advocate for local services, protect community assets, invest in parks, and contribute to planning consultations.”
The consultation runs until March 30.
Any new Spalding council would cover the current district council Spalding wards of St Johns, Wygate, Castle, Monkshouse, St Mary’s and St Paul’s.
Coun Dave Ashby, chairman of the community governance review working group at South Holland District Council, said: “This is your opportunity to share whether you would prefer more localised decision-making or are satisfied with the current arrangements.
“With changes to local government impacting district councils like South Holland, a town council would still allow a level of local governance, a voice for the local community and localised decision making.
“Your views are very important and we want to hear from you as we start the first phase of the Community Governance Review. Please do take the time to read the information and share your thoughts with us.
“Whether you are a resident of Spalding, a resident of a neighbouring parish, a business owner or represent a Spalding group or organisation, we want to hear from you on how you would like the unparished area of Spalding to be governed in future years.”
More information and the chance to take part in the consultation are here: https://www.sholland.gov.uk/CGR
Paper copies are also available upon request by ringing 01775 761161.
Picture of Spalding Market Place from the air as pictured by Lincolnshire Drones.
