RESIDENTS are being urged to seize the opportunity to have their say on whether a town council should be created for Barrow.

The new Westmorland and Furness Council will come into effect from April 1 next year, covering the areas currently served by Barrow Borough Council, South Lakeland District Council and Eden District Council.

Barrow will be the only town in the new council area that is not also served by a town or parish council.

Last month, a review into whether the unparished area of Barrow should have its own town council was launched – with hundreds of people attending community drop in events since then to find out more.

Letters have also been sent to all households in the area in question to explain the reason for the review and how people can take part.

Now, residents are being urged to complete a short questionnaire before the deadline of April 14 so they don’t miss the chance to have their say.

The survey can be found here:  https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Y22MLGG

A spokesperson for Barrow Borough Council said: “Town councils can do lots of things and, crucially, can provide a very local voice for those who live within their boundaries.

“This is an exciting opportunity for residents to consider. It only takes a few minutes to complete and will provide us with really useful information about this proposal.”

The review of local governance arrangements in Barrow was launched online last month and attended by local government internet sensation Jackie Weaver.

Barrow borough already has two parish councils and a town council. These will not be affected by the review, for which Barrow Borough Council has 12 months to complete.

A series of drop in sessions are planned for the remaining consultation period which anyone can attend.

These events will provide essential feedback on whether a town council should be created for Barrow, with the final decision being made by members of the Shadow Westmorland and Furness Council later this year.

For more information, please visit: Barrow BC – Community Governance Review

Community drop in sessions: