Hunstanton Town Council informed how devolution and local government restructuring could provide them a ‘tremendous opportunity’

A town council was informed of the benefits the area could receive with the introduction of local government restructuring and devolution.

At Hunstanton Town Council’s full meeting last Wednesday, Norfolk County Councillor Andrew Jamieson addressed the group, talking about the benefits the upcoming government changes could bring.

He highlighted that there will be a “large focus” on economic development and the council will be given more control on things such as adult education.

Cllr Jamieson described the current structure of local government as being “expensive and not really efficient”.

“We must demonstrate local engagement in areas. Local identities will be a really important part of this, including the civic role of the mayor and sense of identity in the town,” he said.

Cllr Jamieson explained the amount the local government would save would increase depending on how many authorities they have.

For example, having one authority would save £120million (over five years), having two would save £20million and having three would lose a total of £50million.

At the meeting, town councillors questioned what the future of parish councils would be.

However, Cllr Jamieson said that plans could be town and parish councils could get more opportunity to control certain aspects of what goes on in their area.

He added: “It is a tremendous opportunity for Hunstanton.”

Hunstanton mayor Michael Ruston said: “This is all going to get very interesting when looking at finances with each and every council.”

In response, Cllr Jamieson added: “What will happen is there will be a unification. Everyone will be paying the same council tax.

“There is a £900million deficit in Norfolk County Council, this could be swallowed across three authorities.”