Residents cast their vote on a town council for Crewe (From Crewe Guardian)

Residents cast their vote on a town council for Crewe

9:33am Friday 17th February 2012 in News By Katie Durose

MORE than 8,800 people have so far voted on the ballot for a town council in Crewe.

Residents have until February 29 to vote on whether they want a town council or not, but Cheshire East Council say they are delighted with the result so far.

All residents should now have received their ballot papers asking the direct question, ‘do you want a single town council for Crewe?’ If a town council is established, people in Crewe will have more local representation, similar to all other areas of Cheshire East, with the exception of Macclesfield.

It could take responsibility for local services and assets, such as Crewe Market Hall, and a leading role in shaping its future.

If the result of the ballot is ‘no’, a special expense levy will be introduced in Crewe in April 2013 to cover the cost of services which a town council would have provided.

Clr Michael Jones, cabinet member with responsibility for resources, said a town council would mean Cheshire East could concentrate on providing other services across the borough, such as for adults and children.

He added: “I am extremely delighted with the response we have had so far and it shows the people of Crewe are taking a keen interest in this important matter.

“If Crewe had a town council, certain assets could be transferred to that authority, which would be better placed to manage them going forward.

“This is because local people know more about what their local community wants. A town council would give the people a voice in how the town centre develops.

“Without a town council, there is a real danger that such valued public facilities like town halls, market halls, allotments and other conveniences could be lost. Cheshire East Council does not wish to see this happen.”

Completed ballot papers must be returned by no later than 5pm on Wednesday, February 29.