Parish council could be abolished after 100 years

Andrew Waterhouse is worried about what will happen to parish facilities

A parish council has opposed plans that could see it abolished after more than 100 years.

Greasley Parish Council faces being dissolved and split between neighbouring parishes as part of a "community governance review" being conducted by Broxtowe Borough Council.

Independent parish councillor Andrew Waterhouse said the move "feels like a hostile takeover".

Broxtowe Borough Council said no final decision had been made.

Greasley Sports and Community Centre is currently owned by the parish council

The review is aimed at ensuring parishes are viable and "reflect the identities and interests of the community in the area".

Broxtowe Borough Council recommended the change in May, but the plans are currently out for consultation.

Mr Waterhouse raised concerns about what it could mean for the future of parish-owned facilities such as the Greasley Sports and Community Centre.

"I worry that we give up our assets and it's transferred away from our control to another council that probably doesn't share our passion and understand how it works," he said.

Parish council vice-chairman and Conservative Party member Ron Jones described the process as "undemocratic and immoral".

"It's pure opportunism on the behalf of Broxtowe council to take over facilities they haven't got," he said.

David Derbyshire said the parish council's facilities were "excellent"

Campaigners said a petition opposing the parish's abolition had gained more than 850 signatures.

Resident David Derbyshire said he was worried about the prospect of the sports centre being run by others.

"It's incredibly well maintained and incredibly well run," he added.

"It is just a complete surprise as to why somebody would want to come and mess with that," he said.

Others expressed concerns about the possible impact on the local green belt.

Retired finance worker Gillian Powell has lived in the area for 50 years and called the proposal "dreadful".

"I don't see why we should be taken over by an urban council when we're rural," she said.

Gillian Powell has lived in the area for 50 years

A spokesperson for Broxtowe Borough Council said: "This recommendation is currently out for consultation that ends in October 2024, and only after consideration of all submissions received, will a final decision be made."

A final decision is expected later this year, with any changes to parishes due to be in place for elections in 2027.