You may have heard about proposals for Coventry to
become part of a West Midlands Combined Authority. Combined authorities mean
the government hands over some of its powers to councils in regions working
together to deliver improvements in economic development, regeneration and
transport. However, all decisions about local council services will still be
made by Coventry councillors with no changes to boundaries, the civic role of
the Council or the city’s sovereignty over its own affairs.
The proposed West Midlands Combined Authority is based on three current local economic areas
covering Coventry and Warwickshire, the Black Country and Birmingham and
Solihull.
We’ve already had
some interesting discussions about combined authorities at ward forum meetings,
but we know that some people can’t always get to evening meetings and would
prefer just to pop into a local centre, so we have arranged some drop-in
sessions. These sessions will suit people who’d like to find out more by
chatting to someone.
On-line
discussions started last week and meetings with specific groups and leaflets
and comments postcards will also help you have your say.
The drop-in sessions will be held at the
following venues between 11am and 3pm:
- 26 City Arcade (former Voluntary Action Coventry) Thursday 13 August, Friday 14
August and Saturday 15 August
- Wyken Community Centre, Westmorland Road, Monday 17 August
- Allesley Community Centre, Winsford Avenue, Wednesday 19 August
- St Paul's Church Hall, Foleshill Road, Tuesday 25 August
- Xcel Leisure Centre, Mitchell Avenue, Wednesday 26 August
Further information about the combined authority and other ways to get involved can be found at www.coventry.gov.uk/combinedauthority.
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