Crawley councillors are set to deliberate on a significant proposal concerning the town's future administrative alignment during a full council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 7. This meeting, which will take place at the Town Hall on The Boulevard from 7.30pm, will be immediately followed by a cabinet meeting at 8.30pm. At the cabinet meeting, a decision is expected regarding whether to submit a proposal to the government that would see Crawley become part of a unitary authority with Reigate and Banstead in Surrey, rather than remaining aligned with West Sussex.
The proposal must be submitted by Friday, May 9, after which the government will determine the course of action. The government’s decision will dictate whether Crawley integrates into a West Sussex unitary authority or partners with Surrey, marking a significant realignment of local governance for the borough.
This potential change has sparked considerable public opposition, with around 350 people having signed a petition led by Claire Apostolides. The petition emphasises Crawley’s strong historical and community ties to West Sussex, stating that the town has been "intricately woven into the fabric of West Sussex." It expresses concerns that Crawley could become perceived primarily as "a strategic economic asset due to Gatwick Airport" rather than a community with distinct local interests.
Apostolides' petition also criticises the government's approach to the decision-making process, highlighting the lack of public consultation. It states: "The government’s decision to suspend democratic processes and decide on Crawley’s future without consulting its people is deeply undemocratic. The very essence of democracy is allowing the people a say in their future. We must have the opportunity to cast our vote and express our voice on whether we want to remain aligned with West Sussex or face realignment to Surrey."
Members of the public are invited to attend both meetings at the Town Hall to witness discussions and decisions regarding this proposal. The outcome will have substantial implications for Crawley’s governance structure, service delivery, and its relationship with neighbouring authorities. The Argus is reporting on these developments as the borough stands at a crossroads in determining its administrative future.
Source: Noah Wire Services