Opposition vote puts future of Gloucester’s 800-year-old civic traditions at risk

The future of Gloucester’s Mayor and Sheriff hangs in the balance following a vote by opposition councillors.

Conservative, Labour and Community Independent councillors joined forces to block proposals to begin a Community Governance Review for Gloucester.

The review would have allowed residents and stakeholders to have their say on how Gloucester’s civic traditions could be protected following local government reorganisation, which will see the city council axed. 

Were there to be a single unitary authority for Gloucestershire or an east-west split, the review would also have explored creating a parish council for the whole of the city.

The vote by opposition councillors at Monday evening’s annual council meeting has placed the future of the city’s historic civic institutions in unnecessary jeopardy.

“The Community Governance Review would have explored options to safeguard the ancient offices of Mayor and Sheriff, which have formed part of Gloucester’s identity and history for nearly 800 years,” said Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of the council.

“Rejecting the review means shutting down that conversation before it has even begun and not giving the people of Gloucester a say in the future of the city.

“They don’t want to ask the question because they might not like the answer. 

“We are open to alternative views, but our priority is to retain a council that can fight for the interests of the city, and not have decisions made by councillors in remote parts of the county. 

“It’s about democracy, which they claim to care about. What are they afraid of?”

Councillor Sebastian Field, a former Mayor of Gloucester, said local government reorganisation had created uncertainly across Gloucestershire.

“There is now a very real risk that the offices of Mayor and Sheriff could be weakened or lost altogether if proper preparatory work is not undertaken in time,” said Councillor Field.

“These traditions are not relics of the past. 

“They remain an important part of Gloucester’s civic life, connecting the modern city with centuries of history, public service and community identity.

“At a time when many residents feel disconnected from political institutions, preserving Gloucester’s unique civic heritage should be something capable of commanding support across party lines.

“It is deeply disappointing that the opportunity to begin that process has been blocked.

“It was simply a request to consult the public and examine the available options to ensure Gloucester’s civic heritage is preserved for future generations.

“We urge councillors to reconsider their position and ensure that the people of Gloucester are given the chance to shape the future governance and civic identity of their city before decisions are made for them elsewhere.”