Local councillor Mike Bell met with Local Government Minister Grant Shapps and Decentralisation Minister Greg Clark in London yesterday as part of a roundtable discussion on improving local government.

At the meeting, Mike expressed his determination to help shake up North Somerset Council and make a positive difference for our community. He praised the “can-do” attitude of residents in Weston and expressed frustration at the unwillingness of the Government to give local communities the freedom they need to solve local problems in local ways.

Local Government Minister Mr Shapps said he wants to see more talented people join this army of community champions and, along with Decentralisation Minister Greg Clark, pledged to make it easier for this new generation by tearing up even more red tape and giving them more powers that will place them centre stage in their communities with more clout than ever before to get things done on a whole range of issues.

Speaking before the meeting, Minister Grant Shapps said:

“We have a long tradition of community action in this country. But for far too long the iron grip of Government has thwarted the efforts of committed people wanting to make a difference in their local area.

“This Government has acted quickly to tear up pointless red tape and put councillors in control in their communities with more clout than ever before to get things done.

“But I am determined we go further and faster. That’s why I am meeting with local councillors with a proven track record of shaking up the status quo to deliver for their local community. I will be asking them what more needs to be done and what further barriers need busting.

“These councillors will have impressive stories about how they beat the odds to get an important project off the ground or overhaul a key local service. I hope they can inspire a new generation of community champions to join their ranks. But I also want it to be easier for them. That’s why this Government will not let up in its drive to decentralise power and remove stuffy regulations which often hold back would be community champions.”