Leigh Ingham MP has written to the Leader of Stafford Borough Council to oppose proposals to create a new Stafford Town Council, raising concerns about the potential council tax cost to residents and the lack of clear benefits.

In her letter to the council leader, Leigh said she was “strongly opposed” to the creation of a Town Council and questioned whether introducing another layer of local government could be justified during the cost-of-living crisis.

The consultation comes as Staffordshire prepares for local government reorganisation, which will replace the current two-tier system of county and district councils with new single-tier unitary authorities responsible for all local services. The aim is to simplify local government structures and create a more efficient and cost-effective system.

Stafford Borough Council is currently consulting on whether to establish a Town Council covering Stafford, with a consultation open to residents until March 22nd.

Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages, said: “Stafford is a historic county town with a strong civic identity, but I just don’t believe creating another layer of local government is the right solution.

“At a time when many residents are already facing cost-of-living pressures, any additional council tax costs need to be clearly justified. At present, I have not seen a clear explanation of what additional services a Town Council would provide or how it would improve residents’ day-to-day lives.

“The Government is working to simplify local government structures with reorganisation, not add additional layers of governance.

“My priority is ensuring Stafford residents have strong representation, fair council tax prices, and effective services in the future. I believe all of those things can be delivered without a Town Council.”

Leigh has asked the council to clarify what specific, measurable benefits residents would see from the creation of a Town Council, including the potential impact on council tax.