Worcester Liberal Democrats: “Protesting is not the same as sitting on your hands. We are standing against the erosion of local democracy”

At yesterday's (2nd Sep) council meeting, Worcester Liberal Democrat councillors voiced strong opposition to government-driven plans to abolish Worcester City Council as part of local government reorganisation.

Speaking after the debate, Liberal Democrat Co-Group Leader Jessie Jagger said:

“First, I want to thank our officers for their work on this report, and also thank our Labour and Green colleagues here in Worcester for engaging openly with us. As Liberal Democrats we have taken part in this process in good faith.

But what we are being asked to do tonight is not a real choice. Both options abolish Worcester City Council and take the local voice further away from the people we represent. If pressed, we recognise that two authorities with shared services is the least damaging option – but what is the point when the County Council has already spent £350,000 on PwC consultants to make the case for one giant authority? This consultation feels like it has been designed to defend a foregone conclusion.”

The group highlighted serious flaws in the financial case being presented for reorganisation.

The Liberal Democrats also raised concerns about new powers contained in the government’s English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill (2025).

“This Bill doesn’t just invite councils to reorganise – it gives Ministers the power to direct us to submit proposals. Either we do what we are told, or we are told anyway. That strips local democracy away with the stroke of a pen. We are being ordered by a minister. We do not have a choice ”

On the proposed introduction of “super mayors”, the group warned that the new roles could hand unprecedented powers to one individual.

“Ministers assume these posts will always be held by progressives. That is dangerously naïve. A populist could sweep in and hold more power than any Member of Parliament, with fewer checks and balances.”

The Worcester Liberal Democrat group confirmed they would abstain on all votes yesterday as an act of protest.