Norfolk County Councillor for Swaffham William Nunn calls new devolution plans for county ‘ludicrous’

A county councillor described the Government’s devolution plans as “ludicrous” while he raised concerns about how residents’ voices will be heard.

Norfolk County Council’s William Nunn, who represents Swaffham, raised his concerns about how devolution will impact the town’s residents.

He said he disagrees with ministers who want to see a devolution deal covering Norfolk and Suffolk, with an elected mayor.

Cllr Nunn made his views clear at a Swaffham Town Council meeting that took place last Wednesday.

“Devolution has begun, with Norfolk as a priority. I just don’t see it as a great way forward,” said Cllr Nunn.

“But it is what it is, I don’t see the point of abolishing two great councils.”

Cllr Nunn added that the area is “too big” for unitary authorities covering the county, which would mean that Breckland Council and West Norfolk Council would be things of the past.

He added: “Driving from Lynn to Great Yarmouth takes up a big part of your day. It needs to be divided up.

“Having worked in big authorities, it’s not good. They are out of touch with residents. It is ludicrous.

“I think it is a real shame that what we have got and developed over the past 50 years will be abolished.”

Cllr Nunn’s concerns comes after it was announced that Norfolk has been confirmed as a priority area for devolution.

If it goes ahead, district councils will be scrapped and the county is set for new powers and funding.

The exact timetable for the new deal to come into effect has yet to be confirmed.