BACK IN 2010, we published an article that asked this very question?
You do look around at the 49 councillors and ask: Does Thurrock really need this number of councillors?
The question was relevant in 2010 and perhaps, in the light of £37.7 million worth of cuts, it is even more relevant today.
We can hear the mutterings of many a resident, voter, employee etc: Why on earth are we spending over £500,000 a year on the 49 councillors. Just a cut here and there could help save Transvol and Citizens Advice.
The same could be said of many areas. Harlow, with a population of 80,000 (and so half the size of Thurrock) has 33 councillors.
Back in 2010, we asked Thurrock Council leader John Kent whether he would act to cut down the number of councillors from 49 to say 36. Cllr Kent replied: "It is not in our gift. This decision would have to come from the secretary of state."
So, in 2014, we have asked again. Cllr Kent confirmed to YT that the situation had not changed.
"Cllr Kent said: "Again, it is something that is related to the Boundary Commission. I would welcome a debate on it but I would not want residents to think that such a debate and vote would trigger action."
Whether you think that is right or wrong, feel free to comment.
