High Peak MP seeks your views on Local Government shake up

High Peak MP Jon Pearce has responded to the Government's recent proposal to restructure councils in England, which includes plans to remove two-tiered local government. 

The Government’s proposals would see smaller district councils, like High Peak Borough Council, and large county councils, like Derbyshire County Council,disappear with new larger single authorities created to replace them. 

Jon Pearce MP welcomed the potential benefits of the powers and freedoms such reforms could bring but emphasises the importance of preserving local representation and decision-making. He stated, 

"While the goal of simplifying local government structures is welcome as it has the potential to save costs, streamline accountability and improve public services, it is crucial that any changes do not become too remote from the communities they serve. The remoteness and lack of attention paid to High Peak by Matlock under the current arrangement is brought up with me consistently on doorstep and in the casework, I support people with."

Derbyshire Conservatives, without telling anyone, have already submitted a proposal to Government that would see a single mega council based in Matlock for all of Derbyshire – stretching from the Leicestershire borders all the way up to Tintwistle in Glossopdale.

“Derbyshire Conservatives have jumped the gun, formally proposing something for their own narrow political interest. It is interesting that they now seem to be trying to cover their tracks with the former MP for High Peak askingfor views after they have already submitted their proposal. 

“I fear if the Derbyshire Conservative proposal goes ahead, we in High Peak will continue to be left behind. When push comes to shove High Peak is never a priority in Matlock. You only need look at their plans to close care homes, adult day care centres and children’s centres in High Peak. 

“I am pleased that Labour led High Peak are looking at all options before making a submission, including the possibility of joining Greater Manchester

“I am determined that High Peak should get the best possible deal. Our geography has often meant that we are on the edge of everywhere. This is achance to put ourselves at the centre of new opportunities for economic growth and public service delivery. 

“Greater Manchester has the fastest growing economy in the UK. When you look at key economic indicators, like travel to work areas, all of High Peak points towards the Northwest. 

“All of our trains, whether from Buxton, New Mills, Chapel, Whaley Bridge, Glossop or across the Hope Valley, where I live, all go into Greater Manchester. No trains or major transport routes go south towards Matlock or into the rest of Derbyshire. 

“More people use hospitals in Greater Manchester, like Stepping Hill and Tameside than they do at Chesterfield in Derbyshire, which can often lead to difficulties coordinating care and community services in our local areas.”

“Many of our young people, if they do not go to college in High Peak, cross the border into Greater Manchester. Indeed, one of main election promises was to deliver fairer fares for High Peak’s students because they could not access the free bus pass students in their class from Greater Manchester can.”

“In simple terms, on a day-to-day basis we look North not South. I believe we should be part of the Northern Powerhouse and all the opportunities that would bring for local businesses and jobs. It may be possible to achieve that through other options in this process and I am glad High Peak is willing to explore all opportunities before making a submission to the Government.”

“Whatever option is decided upon, it will not change our sense of place or belonging to our local communities. This is about getting the right option for how we are governed locally and regionally to deliver the best possible future for our towns and villages in terms of economic growth and public services.”

The Labour MP for High Peak is seeking residents’ views on the reorganisation and has set up a survey on his website for people to share their comments with him. This can be accessed at www.jon4highpeak.com/LocalGovChanges