County Hall has thrown its weight behind a motion seeking ‘categorical assurance’ that the Isle of Wight Council remains independent.
Full council this evening (Wednesday) voted for Cllr Michael Lilley’s proposal defending the council’s position as a ‘recognised stand-alone unitary authority’ as the government’s controversial devolution agenda gets underway, with 27 in favour, four against and two abstentions.
The Liberal Democrat representative for Ryde Appley and Elmfield’s submission said:
“Isle of Wight Council resolves to celebrate 30 years as an independent unitary authority by seeking categorical assurance from the Government that the council remains a recognised stand-alone unitary authority in light of the recent announcement on devolution and Isle of Wight being part of the priority programme for Hampshire and Solent area.”
A contrasting motion tabled by Cllr Geoff Brodie that full council ‘encourages’ County Hall’s leadership ‘not to rule out’ a merger with mainland authorities in local government reorganisation discussions could not be voted on due to Cllr Lilley’s proposal passing.
The Pan and Barton councillor’s motion said:
“Full council recognises the wishes of many residents to have an independent local authority.
“However, it also recognises that the vast majority of residents don’t care who that local authority is provided it provides good or better public services.
“With relatively low levels of business rates and a large, older community often very dependent on adult social care services, the Isle of Wight Council’s future prospects are not good. ‘Bankruptcy’ looms.
“Therefore, full council encourages the council leadership in its discussions about local government reorganisation with its Hampshire and Solent partners, not to rule out the possibility of a merger with mainland authorities.”
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