Make WNDC locally accountable (Northampton Liberal Democrats)

Northampton Liberal Democrats <info@northamptonlibdems.org.uk>

Make WNDC locally accountable

September 16, 2009 9:52 AM

Lib Dem Northampton Borough Council Cabinet is calling for reform of the West Northamptonshire Development Corporation.

Responding to a Government consultation, the Council will argue that WNDC should concentrate on delivering investment and creating the infrastructure that is needed if Northampton is to regenerate and grow.

The Guildhall The Council wants planning powers returned to Northampton Borough Council within 18 months and for WNDC to become more accountable to local people through councillors nominated to their Board by local Councils, rather than appointed by the Government.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, Deputy Leader of Northampton Borough Council, Councillor Brian Hoare said: "For WNDC to be effective it needs to narrow its focus, concentrating on providing the infrastructure required to make Northampton an attractive place for people to invest and live in, and return the planning decisions back to the local councils."

"WNDC needs to concentrate more on delivery and respond to the concerns of local people. We need that change to take place quickly."