REDBRIDGE could soon have a Boris Johnson of its own under sweeping new proposals to transform the way local communities are run.
The council has been told by the Government it must change the way it is organised as part of new legislation designed to try and excite people more in local politics, and transform the structures of power.
The borough is now faced with a choice of having either a directly elected mayor who picks his own cabinet, a directly elected mayor AND cabinet, or a “new style” leader voted in by councillors from all parties.
Redbridge Council, which launched a consultation among residents over the plans back in July, is now pushing for more people to have their say before its deadline of Friday October 16.
However opinion on the streets of Wanstead and Woodford is mixed as to what the impact of any changes will be.
Pensioner Jeffrey Golding, 84, of Broomhill Road in Woodford Green, said: “I don't think changing the way things are organised would make any difference because of the abysmal voter turnout in local elections.
“Young people just aren't interested in politics, and having a mayor won't change that.
“If I had to choose a mayor I would pick myself. I'd do it for free.”
Wife Anita Golding, 77, said: “I just don't trust politicians anymore these days. They're all in it for themselves.
“Local councillors never used to get paid, they should get rid of their allowances – that would have a bigger impact I feel.”
But Matthew Stevenson, 24, of Walpole Road in South Woodford, said: “I think it's a great idea to have a mayor, as long as they actually did something and didn't just waste taxpayers' money.
“I think we should have someone well-known locally like Ian Duncan Smith. I'd vote for him.”
Hazel Bell, 54, George Lane in South Woodford, said: “It sounds like an alright idea, but then a mayor can potentially be just as ineffective as a councillor, so it would all depend who it would be.
“A lot of people would only like a mayor if they had the same political views as them, so a mayor could put people off if they were from the 'wrong' party.”
Jamie Hutton, 23, of Prospect Road, Woodford Green, said: “I don't really care, I don't think it will make any difference.
“If I had to choose someone to be mayor I'd probably pick one of my mates. I think it would be good to have a younger person running things.”
If you would like to provide your opinion on which option you prefer, visit redbridge.gov.uk, visit your local library or call 8708 2019.
Alternatively you can send your comments to Policy Team, Town Hall, PO Box 2, Ilford, Essex IG1 1DD or email strategic.services@redbridge.gov.uk.
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