The Unitary Authority research recently published by Buckinghamshire Business First is a serious and welcome contribution to the discussions about whether and, if so, how to change the current structure of local government in the county. The potential net savings of more than £10million over five years that could be made are worthy of closer consideration along with the strategic benefits that could arise by having a more joined-up approach to housing, planning and economic development.

These discussions also need to factor in what are the benefits to local communities in changing the structure of local government. It’s not all about the money, the potential savings in council tax or the benefits to the local economy that might arise. We need also to ask ourselves what are the benefits to our local communities in having a changed structure, especially the more vulnerable members of those communities – such as the elderly, the ill, the disadvantaged and those with young families. – Richard Dickson, Director – Heart of Bucks, Buckinghamshire Community Foundation