MERGER BRINGS GREATER RISKS

I READ with interest in the Free Press, (Leaders back super council ‘principle’, June 19) that a possible merger may take place with neighbouring councils.

In 1974, such amalgamation took place with neighbouring towns; that included, Whitworth, Bacup, Rawtenstall, Haslingden, Edenfield, and part of Ramsbottom,

The idea was to form one Authority; and one leader, and re-name the joint areas, ‘Rossendale’.

But at that time what did the local people think?

Many were not overjoyed with the prospect of losing contact with their Town Hall, and close contact with their councillors, and office staff, the wisdom of the move was to venture on improving services and facilities.

But from 1974, such changes have been adopted; and in many ways was not in the public interest.

It was considered that the Town Hall, in Rawtenstall, was too far to go from the outlined towns, and it was later on requested, that Neighbouring offices would be provided from the organised towns, as it would compensate for the loss of access.

Now it is proposed to once again extend by cutbacks, and relate to one Larger Council, that would cover an area so great, that it would be a further step in time,

Ask yourself ‘will it work?’

The public only have to look back over the last few years in Rossendale to find the answer, and even today there are squabbles; as to which town is getting a better deal; and other towns left behind.

So what is it to be?

More towns to engage on a greater area, more who is getting more than the next, or do we keep as we are, and return the works that the Country Council have taken from Rossendale.

And ask yourself will such a merger work?

I don’t think so, the greater the area, the greater the risk.

Wilfred Nuttall via email