New town councils for Spen?

Other towns and villages in the district are considering the possibility of settting up town councils because they think they’re being ignored by Kirklees.

And Cleckheaton could join them. The town’s Liberal Democrats have done a survey of residents which suggests some people may want to consider the idea.

Coun Kath Pinnock said: “One of the questions we have asked is: ‘do you think we need a parish council for Cleckheaton to protect local services?’, and we have so far got a very mixed response.

“People recognise it would mean a bit more council tax, as we can’t run a parish council without the community paying for it. I think issues such as the library are key in whether or not we push for this in the next few months.”

She added that her own views on the matter would depend on how much say Cleckheaton would be given on decisions currently made by the district committees and Kirklees Council.

John Appleyard, from the Spen Valley Civic Society, said: “I think it is something we should definitely have a look at. Although the first question would be ‘where would the councillors be based?’.

“But if it helps us continue to develop local projects, I can’t see it doing any harm.”

Simon Thirkill, head of the Heckmondwike Buisness Alliance, said: “Any devolution down to local level is a fantastic idea, and I believe people in Heckmondwike would support it if it were ever to happen.

On the possibility of adding a precept onto the council tax, he added: “I think in these tough economic times, we all have a social responsibility to take these things on board.”

The Guardian wants to know what you think. Would a town council make a difference to our communities and why? What would you like to see in your town? Get in touch with us by emailing [email protected], or call 0132388937.