Steps to shrink a Cheshire council have moved a step closer despite members having a change of heart since the plans were set in motion.
Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) convened a community governance review this week to run the rule over an application to reduce the number of councillors on Frodsham Town Council.
Following a meeting in February last year, the town council had asked CWAC to carry out the review in order to reduce its membership by a quarter – from 16 to 12 elected councillors – citing problems in recruiting new members.
A consultation was launched showing broad support among the Frodsham residents who responded, with 148 in favour, 21 opposed, and 24 unsure.
But at a subsequent meeting of Frodsham Town Council in September, members voted to no longer support the plan. However, the U-turn may have come too late.
A report to CWAC said: “Whilst the town council has subsequently altered its position, officers conclude that the community governance review must be determined on the basis of all evidence gathered throughout the review and not solely taking into account the most recent resolution of the town council.”
It said the review had included three consultation exercises, including a parish-wide consultation delivered to all 4,414 households in Frodsham.
It added: “Across the entirety of the review, consultation responses have
demonstrated a consistent level of support for reducing the council size.”
The report said CWAC’s decision makers should also take into account changes to the town council which had taken place between the meetings where its position on the plans changes.
It said: “Members should also consider the context of representations submitted by Frodsham Town Council.
“Members may wish to take account of changes in the council’s membership during the review period, including the appointment of some members through co-option.”
Co-option is a political term refereeing to politicians being appointed to a role, rather than elected by a vote.
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The governance review has now recommended that the changes now go ahead, although the decision will need final approval.
A CWAC spokeswoman said: “The committee agreed to the recommendation to reduce the size of Frodsham Town Council. It will go to council in December for final decision.”
If Full Council approves, the reduction will take effect at the May local elections next year.
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