Call for town council

Huddersfield Daily Examiner (Huddersfield, England), Jan 25, 2008

DEWSBURY needs its own council, says a politician.

Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative Parliamentary candidate for the area, wants a parish council for the town.

Parish councils have their own tax-raising powers to pay for grassroots subjects such as hanging baskets and park benches.

Mirfield, Meltham, Denby Dale, Holme Valley and Kirkburton all have their own councils.

Mr Hollinrake said: "One way we could start giving Dewsbury back its pride and identity would be to establish a town council.

"This would allow local people to have a real say in how the town is run.

"A town council could raise and spend money in Dewsbury and might be able to take devolved powers from Kirklees.

"The move would also allow the election of a mayor and it could allow the civic regalia of Dewsbury to be used once again."

Mr Hollinrake added: "I believe people should be able to run their own affairs as much as possible.

"Anything that gives power and influence to local residents who are passionate about their town, and committed to improving it has to be encouraged."