Residents asked to shape the future of governance for Littleton and Harestock
Littleton and Harestock residents are to be consulted on potential parish governance arrangements for the local area.
Residents are being asked to consider three options, to divide Littleton and Harestock Parish Council into two new separate Parish Councils, or for Littleton to become a Parish Council and Harestock to be included in the Winchester Town area or for the current arrangements to remain as they are.
Littleton and Harestock Parish Council has overseen local affairs and developed and maintained important community facilities for many years. However during this time the nature of the area has changed significantly, with Harestock becoming a suburb of Winchester whilst Littleton has remained a rural village.
One of the current issues with the present arrangements is that the area of Harestock provides the majority of the Parish Council’s funding but most of the facilities are located in the village of Littleton.
The consultation period for these three options will take place after the local elections in May.
Portfolio Holder for Democratic Services at Winchester City Council, Cllr Stephen Godfrey said:
“Winchester City Council is keen to ensure the governance of Littleton and Harestock will work for residents. As the landscape of the Winchester District changes over time we have to ensure that there is suitable governance structure in place to meet the needs of communities like Littleton and Harestock.”