Wycombe District Council’s Cabinet agreed to hand control of services such as grass cutting to parish and town councils in a move that supports the Localism agenda.

The move gives town and parish councils enhanced powers with the local authorities now able to improve or change the way the green spaces in their communities are maintained and managed. Any issues with the service are also likely to be addressed more quickly, boosting residents’ satisfaction.

The transfer came into effect on Friday 1st April 2016 and will result in Wycombe District Council making a saving on green space management with no anticipated impact on service standards.

Cllr Julia Adey, Wycombe District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community, said: ‘This decision really is a win-win for everyone.

It localises services, makes it easier for residents to report any issues and influence how their green spaces will look and feel. The budget saving for Wycombe District Council is an added bonus.‘

Princes Risborough Town Council has taken up the mantle on behalf of a cluster of authorities in the north of the district. The cluster includes Lacey Green, Longwick-cum-Ilmer and Bledlow-cum-Saunderton parish councils.

Cllr Alan Turner, Chairman of Princes Risborough Town Council, said: ‘This is a great move for all parties. I would like to thank Wycombe District Council for taking this initiative and giving residents even greater influence over their communities.‘

Marlow Town Council, Hazlemere and Lane End parish councils have also taken up the offer, with Stokenchurch Parish Council due to take control of its green spaces in the coming weeks.

Some small areas of green space not transferred to town or parish councils have been added to the district council’s remaining green spaces contract.

Further information can be foind on the new and improved Wycombe District Council website at wycombe.gov.uk.