Statement from Leader of Forest of Dean District Council, Cllr Adrian Birch.

“On Thursday, County Council Cabinet Members have taken a decision to approve a letter to government to postpone the County Council elections that are currently scheduled for May. 

“I want to be clear that I do not support the postponement of these elections and along with several other local authority leaders in Gloucestershire, have written to the minister to underline this position. 

“It’s important to note that we welcome aspects of the English Devolution White Paper, and are keen to see the devolution of powers, functions and resources from Whitehall to local government. However, as of now, there have been no meaningful conversations about how the new structure would work for residents and there has not been adequate engagement with residents to inform them of developments.  

“For these reasons and more, I do not believe Gloucestershire is ready to bring forward proposals to meet the ambitious timeline of the Devolution Priority Programme and that the Gloucestershire County Council elections should proceed this year as democratically required. 

“I want to ensure that any new Unitary Authority does not lose the Forest’s unique identity and will continue to provide high-quality services for our residents, working together with councillors from across Gloucestershire so that there is a clear and consistent voice as we move forward. I call on government to reject the County Council’s plan to postpone the May elections.'' 

The full letter sent to the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE MP can be viewed here: https://forest-of-dean-dc.euwest01.umbraco.io/media/j2pjjplw/forest-of-dean-district-council-devolution-elections-letter-jan-2025.pdf