November 25, 2019 11.36 am This story is over 67 months old

Councillors set to revisit Boston Town Council plans

Costs to the district could be huge
Boston Borough Council offices in West Street.

Plans to create a new Boston Town Council will be revisited by councillors.

On Wednesday, Members of Boston Town Area Committee will re-examine a series of reports from 2013 which saw councillors at the time reject the idea.

BTAC currently operates as a committee with its own tax precept, however, it is answerable to Boston Borough Council – i.e. decisions made often need to be voted through by the Full Council.

Converting it into a separate body, supporters say, would result in more autonomy over policy decisions, control of its own finances and services and employ its own contractors.

Councillor Paul Goodale, who is bringing the reports forward at the request of members, said: “Personally I don’t see why the town should be at a disadvantage.

“The parish of Boston, as far as Lincolnshire goes, is the only one its size without a town council, but that could be because it’s always been the centre of Boston Borough Council.

Boston Borough Councillor Paul Goodale. Photo: Boston Borough Council

“I would support a town council if one was proposed but it’s a matter for BTAC and the council to take forward if they wish.”

A town council would have its own elected representatives.

According to the 2013 reports, if approved, the council members will need to present Boston Borough Council with a petition containing signatures from at least 10% of the population.

At the time, members argued the change to BTAC would improve local democracy and benefit the town centre.

However, detractors felt it would be extra money and an extra layer of government – something which was disputed.

It was also felt that the time needed to hold a review – which at the time was estimated to cost £70,000 – start from scratch and start-up costs would be prohibitive.

If the committee remains interested following Wednesday’s meeting officers will be asked to collate the latest information for further scrutiny.

SUBSCRIBE TO LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEKLY, our exclusive email newsletter with highlights from coverage every week, as well as insights and analysis from our local democracy reporters.