South Holland District Council leader Gary Porter

COLUMN: Whatever your take on EU referendum result, value the fact we live in a democratic society

By Lord Porter of Spalding
Leader of South Holland District Council

We all know the country is facing some big decisions following the outcome of the EU Referendum.

The direction will be played out over years to come, but what is clear is that people felt very strongly about the issue and went to the polls in high numbers.

Here in South Holland we had a turnout of 75.4 per cent, a figure which was roughly mirrored up and down the country.

I would like to thank everyone involved in organising the referendum count in South Holland. The process ran smoothly with the count team at Springfields Events Centre working into the early hours before a result was declared.

Whatever you feel about the outcome, I’m sure the majority of people would rather live in a democratic society whereby everyone who is eligible to vote can have their say.

And more locally we are seeking your views on the Greater Lincolnshire Devolution deal.
A public consultation got under way last week, giving you the chance to comment on the proposals which include having an elected Mayor for Greater Lincolnshire.

If the deal goes ahead it will enable Greater Lincolnshire to make decisions about how to spend government money for growth and prosperity – decisions that are presently made for us in London.

I’m all for the deal because it will help boost the South Holland economy, but it’s vitally important that your views are considered before a final decision is made.

To have your say visit www.sholland.gov.uk and complete a questionnaire online before the deadline of August 8.
If you don’t have internet access you can get paper copies of the plans and the questionnaire from council-run venues across Lincolnshire.

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