'It must be right for our residents now and in the future'

COUNCIL leaders say a new authority serving South and Mid-Staffordshire will save taxpayers nearly £30 million a year.

- By MAIL REPORTER

Councillors in Stafford Borough will be discussing a proposal for local government reorganisation in the county before a business case for a new unitary council is submitted to the Government.

The Government has set out legislation that would see all district, borough, city and county councils in Staffordshire abolished, to be replaced by larger unitary authorities.

A report to elected members will say the best option would be for the new council to cover the areas of Stafford Borough, Cannock Chase, East Staffordshire, Lichfield, South Staffordshire and Tamworth.

Figures in the report estimate the move would save £29.9 million each year, and provide for a more financially resilient authority able to deliver service improvements.