The leader of Nottinghamshire County Council has slammed the proposal of Bassetlaw joining the Sheffield City region.
If it happens, control over services such as public transport would be handed over to a Sheffield based Metro Mayor.
Councillor Alan Rhodes, who also represents Worksop North-East and Carlton in Bassetlaw, believes that the decision would make “no sense.”
I fear that it will be detrimental
He said: “It makes no sense from a customer or governance perspective.
“I fear that, rather than leading to better economic outcomes, public services and improved governance in Bassetlaw, it will have a detrimental effect in all of these areas.
“By adding two more layers of Government, they will create confusion and uncertainty about who is responsible for what, which will be damaging for local democracy and accountability.”
I fear their interests are not being taken into account
Councillor Rhodes has also officially responded to the consultation due to take place as to whether the change should go ahead or not.
He said: “Our response highlights serious concerns around the implications of these changes on residents and businesses, including the delivery of vital services and the financial viability of the proposals.
“I acknowledge that parts of the Worksop area do share some economic interests with Sheffield City Region but I’m afraid the same cannot be said for the vast majority of the Bassetlaw District.
“Towns like Retford, Tuxford and surrounding rural communities have little economic, cultural or social connection with South Yorkshire and I really fear their interests are not being taken into account.”
