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Four Mid Suffolk councillors quit Tories over Labour's devolution plans

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Four Conservative councillors have formed a new Mid Suffolk Independents group in protest at Labour's devolution plans that could see local councils abolished.

The big picture: James Caston, Lavinia Hadingham, Anders Linder and John Whitehead, who have 35 years combined experience, have created the Mid Suffolk Independents group, leaving just three Conservative representatives on the authority.

Why it matters: The split comes after Suffolk County Council voted to join the government's Devolution Priority Programme, which could lead to significant changes in local democracy by 2028.

Anders Linder, John Whitehead, Lavinia Hadingham and James Caston
Anders Linder, John Whitehead, Lavinia Hadingham and James Caston have formed the new Mid Suffolk Independents Mid Suffolk Independents

The details: Under the government's December White Paper:

  • A directly elected mayor for Norfolk and Suffolk could be in place by May 2026

  • New unitary councils will be created by May 2027

  • All district and borough councils would cease to exist from April 2028

  • May 2025's county council elections will be cancelled

What they're saying: "We are both appalled and dismayed that our Conservative county colleagues have so swiftly embraced this change," the new independent group said in a statement, adding that the changes would cause "significant disruption to our council services," and create "a significantly larger and more remote unitary body," with "minimal" cost savings, and "another remote and expensive layer of bureaucracy."

The other side: The government believes fewer councils with more responsibilities could save money and improve services. It previously indicated merging councils could save £2bn.

Andy Mellen, leader of Mid Suffolk Council, said: "We welcome and respect that four of our opposition colleagues have acted in accordance with their values and conscience."

Harry Richardson, speaking on behalf of the local Conservatives, said the party was "sorry to see them go, but they remain good friends and valued colleagues."

For context: The Green Party continues to hold majority control of Mid Suffolk District Council, meaning the Conservative split will not affect the balance of power.

The bottom line: The reorganisation would be the biggest change to Suffolk's local government structure in decades, with the new independent group warning it would "remove an essential layer of local democracy."

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Theatre project transforms lives through art

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Participants have praised the life-changing impact of a creative wellbeing programme at Ipswich's New Wolsey Theatre, designed to support people with multiple health conditions.

Why it matters: With long-term health conditions predicted to affect 68% of people by 2035, innovative approaches to supporting wellbeing and reducing health inequalities are becoming increasingly vital.

Tell Your Story exhibition at New Wolsey Theatre
Tell Your Story exhibition at New Wolsey TheatrePolly AldertonNew Wolsey Theatre

The big picture: Tell Your Story, produced by New Wolsey Theatre's Creative Communities team and funded by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, brings together people with multiple health conditions in a supportive environment to develop skills in photography, animation and creative writing.

What they're saying: "This programme has been confidence building. It's a really lovely way of bringing people together in a safe space. The gentle introductions, and support and help of the team, makes you feel accepted and part of a little family," one participant said.

By the numbers:

  • 12 workshops led by photographer Gillian Allard and writer Dean Parkin

  • 30% of people currently live with a long-term condition

  • 70% of all health and care spending goes to long-term conditions

What's happening: A free exhibition showcasing participants' work is running in the theatre's lounge area until Monday, 17 February.

The bottom line: Tell Your Story demonstrates how creative expression can improve wellbeing, resilience and sense of agency for people living with long-term health conditions.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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